What's Happening?
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, PSA has released data on the most-collected NBA players during the offseason, providing insights into collector trends and expectations. Victor Wembanyama, the 2024 Rookie of the Year, leads the list with nearly 30,000
card submissions, marking him as the fourth most-collected basketball player overall. LeBron James, entering his 23rd season, follows with 23,800 submissions. Newcomer Cooper Flagg, the top draft pick, saw a significant increase in submissions, placing him third. Other notable players include Stephen Curry, Anthony Edwards, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, each reflecting their continued popularity and impact in the league.
Why It's Important?
The data from PSA highlights the ongoing interest and investment in NBA trading cards, a market that has seen significant growth in recent years. The high submission numbers for players like Victor Wembanyama and Cooper Flagg indicate strong collector confidence in their future potential. LeBron James' continued presence on the list underscores his enduring legacy and marketability. This trend not only affects the sports memorabilia market but also reflects broader economic and cultural interests in basketball as a sport. Collectors and investors stand to gain from these insights, as they can guide future purchasing and investment decisions.
What's Next?
As the NBA season begins, the performance of these players will likely influence future collector trends and card values. A strong season from any of these athletes could lead to increased demand and higher card prices. Additionally, the emergence of new players and rookies will be closely watched by collectors looking to capitalize on early investments. The trading card market will continue to evolve, with potential shifts in player popularity and market dynamics.
Beyond the Headlines
The trading card market's growth reflects a broader cultural phenomenon where sports memorabilia is increasingly seen as a viable investment. This trend raises questions about the sustainability of the market and the potential for speculative bubbles. Additionally, the focus on young players like Wembanyama and Flagg highlights the pressure on emerging athletes to perform and meet high expectations, both on and off the court.
