Dec 19 (Reuters) - Nike ( NKE ) posted a

smaller-than-expected drop in second-quarter revenue on

Thursday, as the embattled sportswear brand's release of newer

versions of performance and running shoes drew customers to its

stores and website.

The company's second-quarter net revenue fell to $12.35

billion from $13.39 billion a year earlier. Analysts had

expected a 9.41% fall to $12.13 billion, according to estimates

compiled by LSEG.