The iconic swoosh logo. The relentless pursuit of "Just Do It." Nike isn't just a brand; it's a cultural phenomenon synonymous with athletic excellence and innovation. But behind the swoosh lies a fascinating story – the tale of Phil Knight, a visionary leader, and his relentless pursuit of building a brand that empowered athletes and redefined athletic footwear. From Track Star to Tracksuit Salesman: The Early Days (1950s-1960s) Phil Knight's journey with Nike began on the running tracks of the University of Oregon. A talented middle-distance runner himself, Knight understood the importance of quality footwear for athletic performance. He also possessed a keen business mind, graduating with a degree in business administration from Stanford. It was during his time at Stanford that a chance encounter sparked a life-changing idea. Knight, inspired by a paper written by his track coach, Bill Bowerman, saw an opportunity to import high-quality, yet affordable, running...