NBA superstar LeBron James has recently announced an exclusive multi-year trading card partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, a division of Fanatics specializing in trading cards and collectibles. This marks the end of his long-standing relationship with Upper Deck, with whom he had a previous card and memorabilia contract that concluded last year.
In a statement released by Fanatics, James expressed his excitement for the partnership, emphasizing his desire to connect with fans and celebrate the achievements of athletes at their peak. He highlighted the importance of recognizing both the significant and subtle milestones in sports.
To commemorate this partnership, Fanatics is set to release a special trading card featuring LeBron and his son, Bronny James, as part of the 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set, scheduled to be released on January 19. This exclusive card will be a 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 its 100 players.
Fanatics Collectibles CEO Mike Mahan expressed his enthusiasm about LeBron joining the Fanatics family and his ambition to expand the boundaries of the hobby. The aim is to foster fan and collector enthusiasm through innovative releases and experiences. Alongside LeBron’s signing, Fanatics also released a captivating video titled “Origin of Greatness,” narrated by James. The video showcases early moments of various Fanatics athlete partners, creating anticipation and reverence for the upcoming card release.
The addition of LeBron to the Fanatics roster is significant, following a more than two-decade association between LeBron and Upper Deck. Upper Deck acknowledged their longstanding collaboration with LeBron and the efforts they have made in building his brand into a highly valuable collectible. They also recognized their work with the LeBron James Family Foundation, expressing gratitude for having had LeBron as a part of their Upper Deck family.
With this new partnership, LeBron James is set to make his mark in the world of trading cards and collectibles under the Fanatics banner. Fanatics’ commitment to innovation and fan satisfaction, combined with LeBron’s legendary status in the NBA, creates an exciting prospect for sports card enthusiasts and fans alike.
As the partnership between LeBron James and Fanatics evolves, it is expected that more exclusive and highly sought-after trading cards and collectibles will be released, capturing the essence of LeBron’s illustrious career. Fans and collectors can look forward to further celebrating the achievements and impact of one of basketball’s greatest icons.