Jason Koonce, the mastermind behind Detroit’s OTIA Sports empire, is not your ordinary CEO. With a penchant for poker and a remarkable ability to turn cards into cash, he has carved a unique path in the world of sports card trading. In a thrilling episode of Out of Office, Eddie Gonzalez of the ETCs podcast joins hosts Rich and Gianni to unravel Koonce’s journey from a poker degenerate to a sports memorabilia magnate.
At the helm of OTIA Sports, Jason Koonce has solidified his place in the industry, rubbing shoulders with legends like Magic Johnson, Hulk Hogan, and Joe Montana. His foray into the business began as a passion project, fueled by his love for both sports and trading. What started as a hobby soon transformed into a lucrative venture, with OTIA Sports emerging as a key player in the sports card and memorabilia market.
While Koonce’s achievements in the trading card realm are impressive, his prowess at the poker table adds another layer to his story. Boasting a million-dollar win in a high-stakes tournament, Koonce’s strategic mindset and calculated risks have not only paid off in the poker arena but have also shaped his approach to the trading card business.
During the podcast conversation, Koonce sheds light on the shifting narrative surrounding trading cards. Once deemed mere collectibles, these cards are now viewed as valuable long-term investments akin to traditional assets like gold and digital currencies such as bitcoin. This evolution in perception underscores the growing allure of sports cards as a serious asset class, capable of yielding significant returns over time.
Through his insights, Koonce reveals the intricate strategies behind transforming trading cards into tangible investments. By leveraging his expertise and industry connections, he has positioned OTIA Sports as a hub for both collectors and investors seeking to capitalize on the booming sports memorabilia market. Koonce’s visionary approach highlights the untapped potential of trading cards as a lucrative investment avenue.
As the conversation unfolds, it becomes evident that Jason Koonce’s journey is not just about cards and cash—it’s a story of passion, innovation, and foresight. His ability to bridge the gap between hobbyist collecting and astute investing has solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the industry. With a blend of skill, intuition, and a dash of poker savvy, Koonce continues to redefine the narrative surrounding sports trading cards.