Panini America recently unveiled a groundbreaking collaboration with Vernell Brown III, a rising star in high school football hailing from Jones High School in Orlando, Florida. The standout wide receiver, widely recognized as “VB3,” has solidified his position as a top talent with impressive performances on the field.
With remarkable stats from his previous season and a stellar start in 2024, Brown has attracted significant attention as a four-star recruit heading to the University of Florida. His commitment to the Gators has not only secured his future in collegiate football but has also opened doors for exclusive partnerships, starting with Panini America.
The multi-year deal with Panini will see Brown featured in autographed trading cards and memorabilia, enhancing Panini’s collegiate product lines. As part of Panini’s strategy to showcase emerging talents, Brown joins an elite roster of promising athletes including Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, Arch Manning, and others.
Given Brown’s potential and track record, Jason Howarth, Panini America’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, expressed confidence in the partnership. Howarth highlighted Brown’s dynamic playing style and projected impact at the collegiate level, setting the stage for a successful collaboration.
The alignment of this partnership with Panini America’s expansion in the Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) arena further emphasizes the brand’s commitment to supporting young athletes. With the recent introduction of Panini College, players from select universities are given the opportunity to have their own trading cards, adding a personal touch to the collegiate sports experience.
In response to the collaboration, Brown shared his enthusiasm, stating that partnering with Panini America is a realization of a childhood dream. The prospect of having his own trading card, a symbol of recognition and accomplishment in the sports world, holds special significance for Brown as he embarks on his collegiate journey with the Gators.
As Vernell Brown III gears up to elevate his game at the University of Florida, fans and collectors can anticipate the release of exclusive trading cards and memorabilia featuring the talented wide receiver. Panini America’s innovative approach to showcasing emerging talents ensures that Brown’s impact on the field will be celebrated and immortalized in the realm of sports collectibles.
