In a groundbreaking move, NBA superstar LeBron James has recently signed an exclusive multi-year trading card partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, a division of Fanatics that specializes in trading cards and collectibles. This exciting collaboration brings an end to James’ longstanding relationship with Upper Deck, with whom he had a previous card and memorabilia contract that concluded last year.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new partnership, James emphasized his desire to share more moments with his fans and celebrate the achievements of athletes at the pinnacle of their careers. He highlighted the importance of recognizing both significant and subtle milestones in sports.
To mark this momentous partnership, Fanatics will be releasing a special card featuring LeBron and his son, Bronny James, as part of the highly anticipated 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set, scheduled for release on January 19th. This exclusive card will be a one-of-a-kind 1/1 on-card dual autograph, showcasing LeBron in his St. Vincent-St. Mary’s high school uniform and Bronny in his USC Trojans jersey. The set will also feature women’s college basketball All-Americans Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, among other talented players.
Fanatics Collectibles CEO Mike Mahan expressed his excitement about welcoming LeBron into the Fanatics family, aiming to expand the boundaries of the collectibles hobby and fuel fan and collector enthusiasm. Alongside LeBron’s signing, Fanatics is promoting the card release with a captivating video titled “Origin of Greatness,” narrated by James himself. This video highlights the early moments of various Fanatics athlete partners, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the highly anticipated card release.
LeBron’s partnership with Fanatics is a significant addition for the company, following a more than two-decade association between LeBron and Upper Deck. Upper Deck acknowledged their longstanding collaboration with LeBron, recognizing their efforts in building his brand into a highly valuable collectible and their work with the LeBron James Family Foundation. The company expressed gratitude for having LeBron as a cherished member of the Upper Deck family.
Fans and collectors alike are eagerly awaiting the release of the 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set, as the exclusive LeBron and Bronny James card will undoubtedly become a highly sought-after collectible. With Fanatics’ commitment to innovation and the passion they bring to the world of collectibles, the future looks bright for this new partnership and the possibilities it holds for LeBron James fans and trading card enthusiasts worldwide.
In conclusion, LeBron James’ decision to join forces with Fanatics Collectibles marks an exciting new chapter in the world of collectibles. With a unique trading card partnership and an exclusive card release featuring LeBron and his son, this collaboration is set to redefine the boundaries and expectations of the hobby. Fans and collectors can expect an exceptional lineup of trading cards and collectibles from Fanatics, fueled by LeBron’s undeniable star power and dedication to sharing unforgettable sports moments with his fans.
