Panini America, a renowned name in the trading card industry, has recently made waves by announcing an exclusive multi-year partnership with Vernell Brown III, a standout high school football player from Jones High School in Orlando, Florida. Commonly known as “VB3,” Brown is a four-star recruit and a top-rated wide receiver, making him a coveted addition to Panini’s roster of young talents.
With an impressive track record of 70 receptions for 1,363 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, Brown has continued to shine in 2024 with 51 catches for 664 yards and four touchdowns. His commitment to the University of Florida earlier this year has only solidified his position as a rising star in the world of collegiate football. Panini America plans to feature Brown prominently in their collegiate product lines and marketing campaigns, alongside other notable recruits such as Jalen Milroe, Quinn Ewers, and Arch Manning.
Jason Howarth, Panini America’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, expressed his confidence in Brown’s potential, stating, “VB3 is poised to be a dynamic player, and we look forward to showcasing his talents through our collegiate collections and campaigns.” This collaboration not only highlights Brown’s individual success but also underscores Panini’s commitment to supporting young athletes as they navigate the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.
Furthermore, this partnership with Brown aligns with Panini’s broader expansion into the NIL space. The recent introduction of Panini College aims to provide athletes from select universities, including Ohio State, Nebraska, and Texas, with personalized trading cards, offering them a unique platform to showcase their achievements and build their personal brands.
In response to the announcement, Brown expressed his excitement about the collaboration, sharing, “Partnering with Panini is truly a dream come true for me. As a child, I always envisioned having my own trading card, and now that it’s becoming a reality, it feels incredibly special.” With this exclusive deal in place, Vernell Brown III is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world of sports memorabilia and continue to captivate fans with his on-field performances and off-field endeavors.
