LeBron James, the legendary NBA superstar, has entered into an exclusive multi-year trading card partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, a division of Fanatics specializing in trading cards and collectibles. This new deal with Fanatics 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.
Expressing his excitement about the partnership, LeBron stated that he is thrilled to share more moments with his fans and celebrate the achievements of athletes at their peak. He emphasized the importance of recognizing both the significant and subtle milestones in sports, showing his commitment to the sport he loves.
To commemorate this collaboration, Fanatics plans to release a special trading card featuring LeBron and his son Bronny James as part of the 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set. This exclusive 1/1 on-card dual autograph card will showcase LeBron in his St. Vincent-St. Mary’s high school uniform and Bronny in his USC Trojans jersey. The set will also feature other notable athletes, including women’s college basketball All-Americans Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, among its 100 players.
Fanatics Collectibles CEO, Mike Mahan, expressed his excitement about having LeBron join the Fanatics family. Mahan aims to expand the boundaries of the trading card hobby and foster enthusiasm among fans and collectors alike. Alongside LeBron’s signing, Fanatics is promoting the card release with a captivating video titled “Origin of Greatness,” narrated by LeBron himself. The video highlights the early moments of various Fanatics athlete partners, adding an element of storytelling to the collectibles.
LeBron’s partnership with Fanatics is a significant addition for the company, following more than two decades of association between LeBron and Upper Deck. Upper Deck acknowledged their longstanding collaboration with LeBron and their efforts in building his brand into a highly valuable collectible. They also highlighted their work with the LeBron James Family Foundation, expressing gratitude for having had LeBron as a part of their Upper Deck family.
This collaboration between LeBron James and Fanatics marks the beginning of a new era in the world of trading card collectibles. Fans and collectors can look forward to exclusive and innovative releases, celebrating the accomplishments and legacies of their favorite athletes. With LeBron’s star power and Fanatics’ dedication to the hobby, the partnership promises to redefine the landscape of sports memorabilia and bring joy to fans around the world.
