The sports card industry is poised for an exciting shake-up as Fanatics/Topps inches towards acquiring NBA and NFL licensing rights. Tailwinds are strong in Atlanta where plans unravel for an eclectic mix of card releases, indicative of the company’s fervor to stretch their reach across various sports – basketball, football, UFC, soccer, and Formula 1.
Basketball fanatics, in particular, have reasons to rejoice as the Topps Chrome series is slated for a grand return to the hardwood courts this summer, a comeback eagerly awaited since its last show in the 2009-10 season. The comeback party is set to be headlined by an autographed card from rookie prodigy Victor Wembanyama. The ball further rolls with exclusive autograph contracts from NBA luminaries including LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant. The upcoming roster of basketball cards promises thrilling products including Midnight Cosmic, Chrome Finest, Motif, Royalty Collection, Collegiate Chrome, and Bowman U Chrome.
Football, too, is under Topps’ exhilarating grip, as they focus largely on college themes. The unified approach builds anticipation as NFL licensing rights are all set to kick in from 2026. As a result, sports card enthusiasts can look forward to releases such as Motif, Composite, Collegiate Chrome, Collegiate Royalty, Bowman U Chrome, and Bowman U Best, slated for launch in the third quarter of 2024.
Soccer enthusiasts aren’t left in the lurch either. Topps introduces the Champions League Dynasty product with exciting on-card autographs and match-worn gear. Women’s Champions League products and the exclusive “The Grail” inserts across six different soccer products make for one compelling lineup. Additionally, the unique 1/1 MLS Debut Patches featured in Renaissance, Finest, and Chrome collections render a refreshing touch to the usually male-dominated sport.
The combat sport audience also has a thrilling lineup to look forward to. As Topps now possess the UFC license, they’re resuscitating the Finest series and throwing in a few premium products like Royal, UFC Midnight, Knockout, and Gold Label.
Lastly, the speed demons of F1 are set to receive an invigorating lineup. The continuation of Paddock Pass (akin to the Stadium Club series but with chrome cards) along with Topps Chrome Finest and Dynasty lineup promise to keep the adrenaline pumping for F1 enthusiasts.
The conviction with which Fanatics/Topps is proceeding, there is every indication that the sports card landscape is in for extensive variety, dynamic range, and broadened engagement. Their proactive approach to offer novel and diverse collections across varying sports indicates their commitment to enhance the sports card collecting experience. From the look of things, the ride promises to be anything but dull for collectors, heralding thrilling and promising times ahead.
