NBA champion LeBron James is shaking up the trading card industry once again as he strikes an exclusive multi-year partnership with Fanatics Collectibles. This move marks the end of his longstanding relationship with Upper Deck, a company he had been affiliated with for over two decades.
In a statement released by Fanatics, LeBron expressed his excitement about the new partnership, emphasizing his desire to connect with his fans and honor the achievements of athletes at their peaks. He believes in celebrating both the major milestones and the smaller, more nuanced moments in sports.
To commemorate this milestone partnership, Fanatics will be releasing a special trading card featuring LeBron and his son, Bronny James. This one-of-a-kind card, set to be part of the 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set, is expected to create a buzz among collectors. The card will be a 1/1 on-card dual autograph, showcasing LeBron in his iconic St. Vincent-St. Mary’s high school uniform and Bronny in his USC Trojans jersey. The set will also feature standout women’s college basketball players Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers among its 100 players.
Fanatics Collectibles CEO Mike Mahan expressed his excitement about LeBron joining the Fanatics family, stating that they aim to push the boundaries of the collectibles hobby and foster enthusiasm among fans and collectors. Alongside LeBron’s signing, Fanatics has created a captivating video titled “Origin of Greatness,” narrated by James himself, which highlights the early moments of various Fanatics athlete partners.
This exclusive partnership with LeBron is a major coup for Fanatics, given his long association with Upper Deck. Upper Deck, in acknowledging their collaboration with LeBron, recognized their efforts in building his brand into a highly valuable collectible and their work with the LeBron James Family Foundation. The company expressed gratitude for having had LeBron as part of their Upper Deck family.
Fans and collectors are eagerly awaiting the release of this special card and are thrilled to embark on this new era of collectibles, led by LeBron and Fanatics. As the trading card industry continues to evolve, this partnership promises to bring new excitement and innovation to the world of sports collectibles, with LeBron at the forefront.
With LeBron James now a part of the Fanatics family, the possibilities for future collaborations and unique collectibles are endless. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of the exclusive LeBron and Bronny James card, they can rest assured knowing that the world of sports collectibles is about to enter a new era, filled with thrilling moments and cherished memories.
