The dynamic power duo, Fanatics/Topps, is sprinting towards the acquisition of NBA licensing in a year and NFL rights in two years. Rather than a gentle jog, they’re charging full force into expand their sports card collections. During the recent Industry Conference in Atlanta, a vibrant kaleidoscope of card releases was set in motion, underlining a proactive stance of diversifying offerings across basketball, football, UFC, soccer, and F1.
The phoenix-like return of Topps Chrome to the basketball realm is a beacon in the line-up, poised for its first appearance since the 2009-10 season. The anticipation is already surging with features such as an autographed card from the rookie sensation of the NBA, Victor Wembanyama. Exclusive autograph contracts with bigwigs such as LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant are also set to tip the scales in favor of Fanatics/Topps. Just note that NBA logos or team nicknames won’t appear on the scene until the official license baton passes from Panini America next year.
Fanatics/Topps appears ready to toss the ball into the court with an expanded list of football card offerings, primarily around the theme of college, as the NFL license clock starts ticking only from 2026. They lay the groundwork for the launch of a spectrum of football releases in the third quarter of 2024.
The global love for soccer isn’t left on the sideline either. The field bursts with activity with the introduction of Champions League Dynasty product, a compendium of on-card autographs and match-won apparel. The roar of the crowd empowers the launch of “The Grail” inserts across six distinct soccer products, with a whopping grand prize – an all-inclusive voyage to the 2024-25 Champions League Final.
Slinking into the chameleon-like UFC fight cage, Fanatics/Topps is set to unleash the Finest series and a smorgasbord of premium products, escalating the adrenaline rush of UFC fans and collectors alike.
The high-octane, frenetic world of F1 is also not left in the pit stop. Paddock Pass will hurl itself onto the scene, analogous to the Stadium Club series but garnished with chrome cards, among other alluring offerings.
Fanatics/Topps is setting the stage ablaze with its multiple, diverse sports card release plans. This strategic swerve in the trading card market lane underscores the company’s zealous commitment to widening its reach while crafting an even more riveting experience for sports card collectors. Certainly, all Eyes will stay affixed on Fanatics/Topps as they blaze new trails in the landscape of sports cards.
