What’s New
The WNBA Players’ Association and Panini have agreed to extend their exclusive trading card partnership for several more years. Since 2019, Panini has been creating WNBA cards through popular lines like Donruss, Prizm, and Select, in addition to high-end collections such as Flawless and National Treasures. This renewed agreement, arranged by OneTeam Partners, is noted by Panini as the most financially rewarding licensing deal for female athletes. Specific financial terms were not shared.
Panini will continue as the exclusive WNBA trading card producer and will persist in offering digital collectibles, including Panini Instant. The company aims to boost investments in player marketing, product development, autograph deals, and event sponsorships, like the WNBPA Rookie Premiere.
Interest in the WNBA has grown due to stars such as Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Las Vegas Aces, headed by MVP A’ja Wilson, recently clinched the league championship. Panini has already launched the 2025 Donruss WNBA set, with Panini Prizm WNBA and the first release of Panini Impeccable WNBA on the horizon. More releases are planned but not yet revealed.
Configuration at a Glance
- Panini retains its exclusive role as the producer of WNBA trading cards.
- Recent and upcoming releases feature Donruss WNBA (2025), Panini Prizm WNBA, and the inaugural Panini Impeccable WNBA.
- High-end lines such as Flawless and National Treasures have incorporated WNBA content in recent times.
- Digital offerings continue through Panini Instant and other online services.
- This year, Rookie Royalty boxes showcased high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Key Inserts & Parallels
- Panini Prizm WNBA: Celebrated for color parallels and rookie cards, including the 2024 Caitlin Clark RC.
- Donruss WNBA: Features Rated Rookies and a variety of insert sets.
- Rookie Royalty: Offers high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for leading rookies.
- High-end lines (Flawless, National Treasures): Generally provide low-numbered parallels and premium inserts.
Autographs & Relics
- Expanded autograph agreements for WNBA players as part of the new deal.
- Rookie Royalty boxes debuted high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Flawless and National Treasures collections have included premium autograph and memorabilia content.
- Upcoming products are expected to highlight autographs and memorabilia from both new and seasoned stars.
Collector Notes
- Panini maintains exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards and digital collectibles.
- 2025 Donruss WNBA has been released; Prizm and Impeccable WNBA are forthcoming.
- Rookie Royalty boxes introduced the first high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Panini is committed to investing in product development, player marketing, and autograph agreements.
- No details on print runs, odds, or specific serial numbering have been provided in the announcement.
- Designs vary by product line, with Prizm recognized for parallels and Donruss for Rated Rookies.
- Additional WNBA releases are anticipated but not yet announced.
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