Fanatics/Topps, the phoenix of the sports card industry, has raised eyebrows and expectations with a slew of announcements during their recent Industry Conference in Atlanta. The company, which is gearing up for the acquisition of NBA licensing next year and NFL rights the following year, seems to be already gearing up its sports card production across a variety of sports, including basketball, football, UFC, soccer, and F1.
Basketball card connoisseurs can look forward to the revival of the Topps Chrome line this summer – its first appearance since the 2009-10 season. The excitement is already simmering with a preview of an autographed card of rookie NBA sensation Victor Wembanyama. Top-shelf signings including Wembanyama, LeBron James (who recently parted ways with Upper Deck), Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant signify a pretty maddening lineup for collectors. However, it’s worth noting that Topps will remain bereft of NBA logos and team nicknames until the official license handover from Panini America next year.
On the football front, with the NFL license only kicking off in 2026, Topps is expanding its football card offerings with a college-oriented approach. Mark your calendars, as the following series are due to make their splash by the third quarter of 2024:
– Motif
– Composite
– Collegiate Chrome
– Collegiate Royalty
– Bowman U Chrome
– Bowman U Best
Continuing its global footprint, Topps is also upping its game on the soccer scene. Champions League fanatics can rejoice over the new Dynasty product, showcasing all on-card autographs and match-worn gear. For a grand slam, they are throwing in the women’s Champions League product with unique patch autographs and “The Grail” insert campaigns. A grand prize for the lucky collector includes an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2024-25 Champions League Final.
Not forgetting UFC enthusiasts, with newly secured UFC license, Topps revives the Finest series with an array of premium products including ‘Royal,’ ‘UFC Midnight,’ ‘Knockout,’ and ‘Gold Label’.
Last but not least, the F1 lineup from Topps continues to rev up with the introduction of Paddock Pass, reflecting a chrome card version of the esteemed Stadium Club series. Other releases include “Topps Chrome Finest” and “Dynasty,” which will feature booklet cards and Michael Schumacher cut signatures.
Fanatics/Topps is, indeed, gearing up for an ambitious and diverse sports card release, illustrating their commitment to carving a bigger niche in card collecting experience while gearing up for the NBA and NFL rights acquisition. One thing remains certain; the path ahead seems thrilling, paving the way for the collectors’ paradise.
