Fanatics and Topps have announced the introduction of their unique debut patch and gold logo patch initiatives for the upcoming NBA season.
Each rookie player will now feature a special NBA debut patch on their uniform. Following the game, this patch will be removed and integrated into an exclusive, autographed, one-of-one numbered rookie trading card. Similarly, the 2024-25 season`s Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year will be distinguished with a Gold NBA Logoman Patch on their jerseys. These patches will also be extracted post-game and embedded into highly sought-after trading cards.
For the 2024-25 season, the esteemed titles of MVP, Rookie of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year were awarded to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Oklahoma City, Stephon Castle of San Antonio, and Evan Mobley of Cleveland, respectively.
Michael Mahan, CEO of Fanatics Collectibles, expressed his vision in an ESPN interview, stating, “Consider the significance of owning a debut patch from legends like LeBron James, Michael Jordan, or Steph Curry.” He added, “The upcoming generational superstars will now have their own debut patches, creating the ultimate rookie card experience. Trading cards traditionally haven`t been linked to achievements and accolades, and we aim to change that by embedding these milestones into our cards.”
This debut patch initiative has already been successfully introduced by Fanatics in Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer.
Josh Goodstadt, Chief Commercial Officer of THINK450, the NBPA`s licensing, partnership, and innovation division, noted, “Witnessing Topps` success with the MLB debut patch made us eager to replicate it in basketball.” He further explained that “these debut and gold logo cards enhance the narrative surrounding the sport and its players, significantly boosting fan engagement.”
Mahan also confirmed Fanatics` collaboration with Certified Guaranty Company (CGC), a renowned grader and authenticator, to ensure the authenticity of these patches.
Early in 2024, Fanatics secured a landmark deal with LeBron James. Historically, James, much like Michael Jordan, had maintained a career-long partnership with Upper Deck.
Mahan enthusiastically stated, “Collectors will undoubtedly find it incredible to acquire LeBron`s autographs on officially licensed trading cards.”
Speaking to ESPN, Mahan outlined Fanatics` plans for upcoming LeBron James memorabilia and various releases designed to commemorate the accomplishments of NBA stars across different eras – past, present, and future, by finding innovative ways to celebrate genuine success.
As an example, Mahan highlighted Topps` tribute to Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw upon reaching his 3,000th career strikeout this season.
Mahan elaborated, “We created unique, one-of-one autographed cards for Kershaw and every other player who achieved that milestone.” He concluded, “Considering significant upcoming milestones in basketball, like players ascending the scoring leaderboard, we aim to honor the sport`s rich history by offering collectors a tangible piece of those pivotal moments, from a player`s debut to their final game.”
