NBA Hall of Famer attempting to halt Caleb Williams' 'Iceman' trademark

Chicago Bears star Caleb Williams' effort to trademark the "Iceman" moniker is drawing pushback from NBA legend George Gervin, who also goes by the nickname.

"I've got nothing but respect for (Williams)," Gervin told the Sun-Times's Patrick Finley on Wednesday. "He's already proved greatness, and his potential upside is great. Like an 'Iceman.' But that name is taken.

"All I'm saying is: Young fella, we've already got one 'Iceman.'"

Williams' "Iceman" nickname gained traction after his performance in late-game situations during his second pro season. The moniker was also spurred by the 24-year-old's signature celebration of rubbing his biceps with his opposite hand, mimicking a cold gesture. The 24-year-old passer credited Chelsea soccer player Cole Palmer's celebration as his inspiration.

Gervin, a four-time NBA scoring champion, enjoyed a prolific 14-year career during which he played for the San Antonio Spurs, Virginia Squires, and Chicago Bulls. The 12-time All-Star said he was given the "Iceman" nickname in 1973.

On March 16, Caleb Williams Holding Inc. filed a trademark application related to "Iceman" - the name, a logo, and two silhouettes depicting the signal-caller throwing an improbable pass on fourth-and-8 to Rome Odunze in the wild-card win over the Green Bay Packers, according to Finley.

On March 20, Gervin Interests LLC filed trademark applications for "Iceman" and "Iceman 44," a reference to his jersey number, per Finley. The application also reportedly states that Gervin first used the moniker in commerce in 1979.

Jerald Barisano, president and CEO of Gervin Global Management, said he mistakenly believed Gervin's nickname was already trademarked, blaming the confusion on the death of a business associate.

"All they've got to do is do one Google search, and they'll see hundreds and hundreds of articles on the 'Iceman,' George Gervin," Barisano said, per Finley.

A decision regarding each trademark application is expected to take months before they're process by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Gervin and Barisano reportedly intend to contest the trademark if it's granted to Williams.