Fanatics/Topps, the go-to company for collectible sports cards, is best known for its dynamic releases that promise fast-paced excitement for collectors and fans. Ahead of acquiring the NBA license next year, and NFL rights two years down the line, the company offered a sneak peek into their intrepid plans for a range of card releases at their recent Industry Conference in Atlanta.
Returning to the world of basketball, the company announced the comeback of Topps Chrome this summer, marking the first appearance since the 2009-10 NBA season. Topps has already sparked curiosity and anticipation among fans by showcasing an autographed card from the NBA rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. Exclusive autograph contracts are lined up with some of the big names like LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant, bringing added value to their collection. However, Topps will only be able to sport NBA logos or team nicknames on their cards after the official license transfer from Panini America next year.
In addition to the star-studded roster, Topps also unveiled an impressive line-up of upcoming basketball product lines. This set includes a high-end release, the Motif, complemented by the Midnight Cosmic, Chrome Finest, and the Royalty Collection. Adding a touch of nostalgia, the Collegiate Chrome and Bowman U Chrome are also scheduled for a released.
Meanwhile, in anticipation of the NFL license in 2026, Topps will expand its football card offerings with a focus on college themes. The upcoming releases are promising interesting collections like the Motif, and Composite—a direct rival to Panini’s Chronicles series. The Collegiate Chrome, Collegiate Royalty, Bowman U Chrome, and Bowman U Best are slated for launch in the third quarter of 2024.
The soccer card scene also braces itself for a surge with the introduction of the Champions League Dynasty product, replete with on-card autographs and match-worn gear. Offering an inclusive experience, Topps is introducing the women’s Champions League product with patch autographs, as well as a tantalizing grand-prize that includes an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2024-25 Champions League Final.
With the UFC license now in its portfolio, Topps is unveiling the Finest series and several premium products including Royal UFC Midnight, Knockout, and Gold Label.
Fans of the F1 racing circuit aren’t left out either, as Topps announced an expansion of the F1 lineup to include Paddock Pass and new releases such as Topps Chrome Finest and Dynasty with special features such as Michael Schumacher cut signatures.
With a kaleidoscope of sporting disciplines represented, Fanatics/Topps is evidently committed to enlarging its footprint in the sports card collecting world. This innovative and daring array of releases is set to redefine the sports card collecting experience in totality, signaling exciting times that lie ahead for every collector. Fanatics/Topps is not only ready to steadfastly maintain its momentum in the trading card market but is also preparing to steadfastly stay ahead of its game.
