What’s New
The WNBA Players’ Association and Panini have agreed to a multi-year extension of their exclusive trading card deal. Since 2019, Panini has been creating WNBA cards in well-known lines such as Donruss, Prizm, and Select, along with premium products like Flawless and National Treasures. The new contract, arranged by OneTeam Partners, is regarded by Panini as the most lucrative licensing deal for female athletes. Specific financial terms were not revealed.
Panini will continue as the sole producer of WNBA trading cards, also providing digital collectibles through Panini Instant. The company intends to boost investments in player marketing, product development, autograph agreements, and sponsorships, including the WNBPA Rookie Premiere.
Interest in the WNBA has grown, thanks in part to stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Las Vegas Aces, led by MVP A’ja Wilson, recently secured the league championship. Panini has launched the 2025 Donruss WNBA set, with Panini Prizm WNBA and the first Panini Impeccable WNBA on the way. Additional releases are expected but have not been announced.
Configuration at a Glance
- Panini continues as the exclusive creator of WNBA trading cards.
- Recent and upcoming sets include Donruss WNBA (2025), Panini Prizm WNBA, and the inaugural Panini Impeccable WNBA.
- Premium lines like Flawless and National Treasures have featured WNBA content in recent years.
- Digital offerings persist through Panini Instant and other online platforms.
- Earlier this year, Rookie Royalty boxes debuted high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Key Inserts & Parallels
- Panini Prizm WNBA: Notable for color parallels and rookie cards, including the 2024 Caitlin Clark RC.
- Donruss WNBA: Features Rated Rookies and various insert sets.
- Rookie Royalty: Offers high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for top rookies.
- High-end lines (Flawless, National Treasures): Generally include low-numbered parallels and premium inserts.
Autographs & Relics
- Expanded autograph agreements for WNBA players as part of the renewed deal.
- Rookie Royalty boxes presented high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Flawless and National Treasures sets have featured premium autograph and memorabilia content.
- Future products are expected to showcase autographs and memorabilia from both rookies and seasoned stars.
Collector Notes
- Panini holds exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards and digital collectibles.
- The 2025 Donruss WNBA is out now; Prizm and Impeccable WNBA are upcoming.
- Rookie Royalty boxes introduced the first high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Panini continues investing in product innovation, player marketing, and autograph deals.
- No print runs, odds, or specific serial numbering were disclosed in the announcement.
- Designs vary by product line, with Prizm known for parallels and Donruss for Rated Rookies.
- Additional WNBA releases are anticipated but not yet announced.
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