Inferring Context Clue

Nike also aims to link its products to compelling back stories. More than ever, analysts say, the two companies are vying not only to sell apparel and shoes and to sign elite athletes but — like documentarians — to uncover inspiring, evocative narratives.

Which word choice below could NOT replace the word vying?

What can we infer about the following excerpt?

A report released this month by Slice Intelligence, a consumer research firm, also detected momentum in the Curry line: That analysis found that in the past six months, online sales of Curry shoes have been up 170 percent compared with the half-year prior.

Which word choice can best replace momentum?

What can we infer about the following excerpt?