The 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set is a nostalgic journey back to the iconic brand that captured the hearts of collectors during the early days of Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson. After a hiatus since 2009, Topps Chrome Basketball returns with a mix of current superstars, promising rookies, and basketball legends, all under the licensing of the NBA Players Association.
While the set is not officially licensed by the NBA, due to Panini’s exclusive rights, it still manages to capture the thrill and essence of the sport. Players are showcased without their full pro uniforms and team logos, but the cards maintain the high quality and appeal that made Topps Chrome famous.
Highlights of this set include nearly 30 different Refractor variations, offering collectors a vibrant array of colorful and visually captivating cards. Unique Refractors like Geometric versions in breaker boxes and basketball background parallels in retail packs add an exciting twist to the collection.
Autographs are a major attraction in this set, featuring Topps Chrome Autographs, Certified Rookie Autographs, and retail-exclusive Certified Autographs. The inclusion of on-card autographs from Victor Wembanyama, the highly anticipated 2023-24 Rookie of the Year, who has an exclusive deal with Fanatics, makes his cards particularly valuable. LeBron James also shines in this release, marking only his second autograph appearance since joining Fanatics, following a dual autograph card with his son in the 2023-24 Bowman Chrome University Basketball set.
NBA legends such as Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal also make appearances with their autograph cards, adding a touch of nostalgia and prestige to the collection.
Collectors can also look forward to a variety of striking inserts in each hobby pack, including Coast to Coast, Destiny, Finesse, Season’s Best, and Youthquake. The set also features Short Print (SSP) inserts like Exposé, Superfly, Let’s Go!, Helix, Radiating Rookies, and Rock Stars, paying homage to classic Topps inserts from the past.
With an August 28, 2024 planned release date, each hobby box is set to contain two autographs, various inserts, and Refractors. The anticipation for this set is evident as pre-sales have already sold out, showcasing the strong demand and excitement among collectors. Topps is harnessing the popularity of rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama to reintroduce the Chrome Basketball brand, making it a sought-after addition to any collection.
As Topps looks forward to regaining the full NBA license in 2025, the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set plays a crucial role in reestablishing the brand’s presence in the basketball card market. With collectors eagerly awaiting future releases and expansions, Topps continues to pave the way for exciting prospects in the years ahead.
