Sports Card News

In the grand tradition of athletes becoming more than just players but bona fide brands, 17-year-old hockey sensation Matthew Schaefer is about to become a household name, at least on trading cards. With the snap of a pen, Schaefer has signed an exclusive multi-year agreement with Upper Deck, the trading card industry giant renowned for capturing the legacies of sports legends in glossy cardboard form.

To say this is merely a contractual obligation would be missing the bigger picture—or, should we say, the bigger posters and nicely framed autographs soon to be lining the walls of fan caves worldwide. As 2025’s NHL Draft approaches, where Schaefer is anticipated to be the first overall pick, fans are eagerly awaiting their chance to own a piece of what might be hockey history in the making.

The deal transforms Schaefer from a burgeoning superstar on the ice to a collectible titan off of it. “It’s pretty special,” Schaefer confessed, eyes undoubtedly twinkling with the nostalgia of past evenings spent sifting through stacks of cards with his family. Now, he joins a lineage of icons like Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby as Upper Deck’s latest exclusive rookie sensation. Not too shabby for a teenager barely old enough to have a driver’s license, let alone become the face of a merchandising empire.

With Upper Deck, Schaefer enters a veritable Valhalla of athletic idols. Jason Masherah, President of Upper Deck, could hardly contain his excitement. “Matthew Schaefer is undeniably one of the most promising young talents in hockey today,” he declared, perhaps envisioning Schaefer as the linchpin for Upper Deck’s strategy to attract not only loyal hockey fans but also new enthusiasts to the trading card phenomenon. It’s not hard to imagine Masherah already coordinating the design for Schaefer’s debut “Young Guns” card—a coveted series for any up-and-comer in the sport.

Despite sporting injuries that could sideline less determined peers, Schaefer’s performance remains impressive. Serving as a formidable defenseman for the Erie Otters, he racked up 22 points over 17 games this season. If success is measured not by avoidance of adversities but by thriving despite them, then Schaefer is already playing in a league of his own. Across borders, his prowess is equally pronounced, having netted gold medals at the U17 World Challenge and U18 Worlds playing for Team Canada.

As Upper Deck begins ramping up its product line featuring Schaefer, collectors should prepare for a whirlwind of memorabilia. Signed pucks and jerseys, possibly brushing shoulders with Schaefer’s grinning visage, are expected to hit Upper Deck’s online storefront by the end of the month. Once Schaefer steps onto NHL ice, his first official trading cards will soon follow, signaling collectors everywhere that it’s time to dust off their binders and make room for a new heir to the hockey throne.

The 2025 NHL Draft marks more than just Schaefer’s full-fledged entry into professional hockey; it promises to be an exhilarating confluence of skills, expectations, and dreams. Scheduled to take place over June 27 and 28 at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theater, the event will witness Schaefer stepping into the spotlight that has eagerly awaited him. As it turns out, this spotlight will have plenty of company: alongside the bright stage lights, Schaefer’s future fans will cradle their newly minted collectibles, each item a crystallized moment of his expansive journey.

Life for a rising hockey star is full of anticipated milestones, and Schaefer’s exclusive deal with Upper Deck represents another leap forward. It’s a synergistic partnership uniting an athlete poised for greatness with a company that has consistently captured such wonder. For those who admire the sport, this collaboration offers another layer of enjoyment, allowing fans to feel a part of his monumental career right from its exciting beginnings.

As trading cards and collectibles fly off shelves and digital domains, the tangible sense of being part of Schaefer’s ongoing story is something that can’t be measured merely by the number of jerseys sold or trading cards printed. It’s in the anticipation, the thrill of what’s to come, and the collective belief in Schaefer’s journey to greatness. Whether it’s on the ice or displayed proudly on a collector’s wall, Matthew Schaefer’s star is only going to ascend, and with it, every card, puck, and jersey that bears his name will become not just memorabilia, but pieces of his storied legacy.

Matthew Schaefer Upper Deck Exclusive

Life as a rookie often involves navigating new teams, new cities, and the unending quest for a place in fans’ hearts. But for Hyeseong Kim, life as a rookie has meant capturing the spotlight with remarkable ease. As a 26-year-old newcomer to the esteemed Los Angeles Dodgers lineup, Kim has been setting baseball stadiums and collectors’ card enthusiasts ablaze with his stellar performances and even more enchanting cardboard effigies. Since his noteworthy debut on May 3, Kim has solidified his reputation as not just a rising star in Major League Baseball (MLB) but also as the latest prized treasure in the fanatic realm of card collection.

Sporting an impressive .386 batting average and an OPS that’s flirting with the .985 mark over a modest 31-game stretch, Kim is etching his name into the hearts and minds of the Dodgers’ faithful. It’s little wonder, then, that his performance on the diamond directly translates to a flood of interest in his rookie memorabilia. The 2025 Topps Series 2 set, currently adorned with Kim’s visage, finds itself being snapped up faster than a fastball pitched by its titular talent.

Front and center amidst this rookie card frenzy are redemption autographs. These signed beauties have already broken the four-figure barrier, with sales clocking between $1,200 and $1,704. If you thought these could be sleeper cards waiting for their time to shine, think again. They’ve already awoken and are making their presence felt on eBay listings across the globe.

Then, there are those elusive and tantalizing one-of-one and low-numbered parallel cards. One card, a Gold Foil 1/1, was snatched for a cool $650. Another, a Black Diamante numbered to just ten, was grabbed for $600, while a Fireworks Foil also to ten achieved a fiery $350. Keep an eye on the Red Fireworks Foil /5—it’s becoming something of a unicorn, sought after yet only visible to the most determined gaze.

Perhaps it’s the nostalgia-driven market or the playful homage that has collectors swooning over Kim’s 1990 Topps Baseball Mojo Foil rookie card. This throwback treasure, styled with Dodger Blue borders, finds itself cherished for its raw $10 purchase price. Yet, its signed siblings are claiming higher stakes, reaching $400 in some transactions.

Equally captivating, Kim’s Golden Mirror Variation card catches our attention not for its rigidity in following the norm but rather for its delightful deviation from it. The card captures Kim engaging with the media in mid-interview, a style choice that’s as quirky as it is captivating. Supported by several listings, this card dances between $150 and $425, firmly establishing Kim’s mid-press charm as a collectible enigma.

Add to this trove the varsity orange allure of an autographed Flagship Real One card, serially limited to just 25 copies. A recent redemption on this vibrant specimen bagged a $1,704 bounty, while its sibling seeks a new home under the watchful eye of interested bidders at $1,500.

Kim’s emergence in this hyper-modern hobby is as formidable as it is fascinating. Out of the top 20 highest-bidding sales from the entire 2025 Topps Series 2 set, three are Kim’s, challenging even baseball titans like Shohei Ohtani and Roki Sasaki for supremacy. Remarkably, the Dodgers, in all their powerhouse glory, claim 16 out of those 20 top sales, underscoring not just Kim’s singular brilliance but the team’s dominant presence in the high-ticket card market.

Juggling his evolving roles between second base and center field, Kim is not only sharpening his skills on the field but further cementing his status in card-collecting circles. Whether he’s leaping to make a game-winning catch or elevating the next bidding war on eBay, Hyeseong Kim remains a rookie you can’t afford to overlook.

Judging by the escalating valuing of his rookie cards, it appears collectors everywhere are keenly aware of the treasures they hold. From the raw essence of his game to the polished allure of his card representations, Kim’s journey is a poetic ode to the dream that drives both athletes and enthusiasts. His rapid rise is a testament to the harmonious blend of talent, moment, and memory—a journey ongoing with the promise of more chapters yet unwritten.

Hyeseong Kim Topps Series 2

In the glitzy world of Major League Baseball, where pop stars often brief the ceremonial first pitches and billion-dollar payrolls are more norm than exception, the rise of a rookie can often feel like a breath of fresh air. Enter Hyeseong Kim, the 26-year-old rookie sensation for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who’s been lighting up not just the field but also the hearts and wallets of collectors and fans alike. Since his debut on May 3, Kim has been on a tear, wielding a bat like a magic wand and turning every at-bat into an invitation to witness greatness live. Sporting a stunning .386 batting average and an OPS tipping close to .985 over merely 31 games, Kim is swiftly establishing himself as a must-watch phenomenon.

But the allure doesn’t stop on the diamond. Kim’s rise is mirrored in the collectible card market, where his 2025 Topps Series 2 rookie cards are transforming into must-have treasures. From plain base cards to the shimmering foils, eye-catching autographs to vintage-inspired inserts, Kim’s likeness is as ubiquitous as Dodger Dogs in Chavez Ravine. This development is sending shockwaves through the community of baseball card aficionados, sparking fervor reminiscent of a bestseller on a Black Friday retail shelf.

At the apex of this card renaissance are the autograph redemption cards—those elusive beauties that blend exclusivity with artistry. Some of Kim’s signed redeemables have already skyrocketed to four-digit sales, with few fetching amounts between the zones of $1,200 to an eyebrow-raising $1,704. Just a month ago, these may have been considered under-the-radar gems; today, they’ve transcended into the realm of sought-after relics.

And then, there are the scarce, artistically enshrined masterpieces like the one-of-ones and limited-edition parallels, eagerly scooped up by collectors faster than a quicksilver Los Angeles sun. Among these, a Gold Foil 1/1 marked its luxury with a $650 sale, closely followed by a Black Diamante /10 achieving $600, and a Fireworks Foil /10 igniting interest at $350. Another rarity, a Red Fireworks Foil /5, is lurking in the market, definitely in the crosshairs of eagle-eyed collectors.

Kim’s 1990 Topps Baseball Mojo Foil RC is not to be overlooked either, exuding retro charisma with a splash of Dodger Blue bordering the edges. Raw copies of this card are trading at around $10, while their autographed brethren are inching towards a cool $400. Such is the allure of Kim that even peculiar curiosities like his Golden Mirror Variation card, depicting the rookie in the thick of a press conference, have found their fan following. And why not? It’s an eccentric piece of collectible curiosity that merges unrehearsed spontaneity with Kim’s undeniable charm.

The Flagship Real One card, cloaked in orange foil and numbered to a scarce 25, is another jewel in this burgeoning card kingdom. Recently, a redemption for this rarity secured $1,704, while its prospect cousin gleams on eBay at $1,500, coaxing potential buyers into its orbit.

Unsurprisingly, Kim owns three of the top 20 sales over $1,000 from the entire 2025 Topps Series 2 collection. Considering he’s sharing catalog space with the illustrious Shohei Ohtani and Roki Sasaki, and still carving out a striking impression, that’s a feat of note. In fact, the Dodgers collective holds sway over 16 of the top 20 transaction volumes tracked by Card Ladder, underscoring their pervasive dominance in this year’s set. For those questioning who’s the king of the card kingdom in 2025, the Dodgers, with Kim at the forefront, make a compelling case.

As Kim continues to expand his playing role—flashing his versatility from second base to center field—so does his pervasive influence on the collectors’ market. Whether he’s majestically tracking fly balls in the outfield or subtly inflating the value of cardboard commodities featuring his likeness, Kim embodies a story of meteoric rise, both as a player and a cultural artifact.

Those tuned in to the card collecting zeitgeist have taken notice, much like fervent archaeologists unearthing a newfound civilization. For baseball enthusiasts and traders with a knack for appreciating talent in its infancy, Hyeseong Kim is not just another rookie; he’s a revelation.

Hyeseong Kim Topps Series 2

Basketball card collectors are experiencing an adrenaline-inducing frenzy thanks to the latest release of the 2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball set, which has hit the market like a buzzer-beater in overtime. Barely a week old, this collection has managed to captivate card enthusiasts across the spectrum—from seasoned hobbyists to newcomers leaping into the colorful minefield of collecting sports memorabilia. Almost reminiscent of a Steph Curry deep three-point swish, the rush has set hearts racing and wallets opening.

Collectors have passionately attacked the newly minted hobby boxes, peeling them open with the zeal of a kid on Christmas morning. On the secondary market, where trends fluctuate like the stock market, card values have been ticking upward steadily. Each jaw-dropping reveal and high-resolution haul feels like finding buried treasure, and this particular treasure chest is brimming with dazzling surprises.

Let’s pause for a moment to admire the “Let’s Go” SSPs (super short prints), which are undeniably the crown jewels of this collection. These inserts, inspired by the bombastic style of the ’90s, have pulled on the heartstrings of nostalgia-chasers while simultaneously luring in new admirers with their eye-popping designs. A Steph Curry “Let’s Go” flared its way onto eBay at a neat $200, its value reflecting not just the card’s artistic appeal but also Curry’s formidable prowess on the court. Following closely, LeBron James’ version danced around the $130 mark, while the much-buzzed-about Wembanyama made an impressive entrance with his insert commanding a tidy sum of $120.

Yet, for those who hold autographs dearer than gold, this set delivers with all the finesse of a perfectly executed crossover. LeBron James’ autographs have trickled into the market with the scarcity of a rare gem, and their initial pricing points around $2,500 indicate just how precious they are considered. Meanwhile, the French sensation Victor Wembanyama has a golden touch as his gold /10 auto drew close to $800. Newcomers haven’t been left out either—Bronny James Jr., basketball royalty in his own right, sold an autograph for $145. Not far behind, Alexandre Sarr’s signed card garnered $110, fleshing out a rookie lineup that promises thrilling narratives.

The ultimate trophy in any collection, Superfractors, have started to tease their way out of hiding. These elusive, shimmering beauties have collectors breaking into a cold sweat in anticipation of snagging one. Trae Young’s 1-of-1 Superfractor emerged victorious at $172, a price that might become the envy of many as the market continues to mature and elevate the stakes. Considering the potential premium these unique cards could fetch, it seems this purchase might have been a strategic coup.

Navigating the economic terrain of hobby boxes themselves, collectors find some solace. With price points hovering between $150 and $200, these boxes offer an enticingly approachable starting line for both casual collectors and ardent hunters alike. This accessibility encourages a wider audience to partake, enabling a communal experience bolstered by shared discoveries and lighthearted rivalries.

Ultimately, the storyline of the 2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball set is already being eagerly penned by collectors worldwide, who are contributing to its ascent as a defining champion of early season releases. Its vibrant assortment of inserts, alluring autographs, and rare parallels ensures it captures the imagination and wallet of those who seek beauty in cardboard form. So, as collectors continue to rip, pull, and swap, anticipation builds for what precious find will next bubble to the surface.

This release has undoubtedly reignited the spark of excitement synonymous with collecting, evoking a sense of community driven not merely by commerce, but by curiosity, delight, and the shared joy of discovery. It turns out some dreams do come wrapped in foil, ready to be unveiled with the flip of a wrist—and in this particular instance, beneath that foil lies no ordinary truth but the vibrant tapestry of a basketball season, captured and immortalized for all in stunning, collectible form.

2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball

With the exuberance of collectors reaching a fever pitch reminiscent of Steph Curry’s three-point antics in crunch time, the release of the 2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball has sent aficionados into a chrome-induced frenzy. This latest offering from Topps has proven to be the peanut butter to collectors’ jelly, with each card packed to perfection in an enticing swirl of vibrant nostalgia and rarity that’s making waves on the secondary market.

Let’s kick off the hoops talk with a quick dive into the “Let’s Go” SSP inserts—a cheerful nod to the flamboyant 1990s basketball card design. These inserts are more than just eye-popping; they embody the tactile allure of rare treasures with a splash of nostalgia that can make a collector swoon. A recent eBay sale of a Steph Curry “Let’s Go” insert went for a cool $200, proving that collectors are willing to shell out serious cash for a piece of the cardboard dream. Meanwhile, a LeBron James counterpart commanded around $130, underscoring LeBron’s ongoing allure both on and off the court. And let’s not forget the promising young Wembanyama, whose appearance in this collection fetched $120 faster than you can say “rookie sensation.”

For those whose aficionado inclinations lean heavily towards the allure of authentic scribbles, this collection doesn’t disappoint. The autograph cards are as coveted as courtside seats to a game seven. While LeBron James’s autograph cards remain a rare bird with only two listed and sold for $2,500 each on the hush-hush of accepted best offers, they’ve already left an indelible mark, promising more thrills as they further percolate into the market. Not far behind is Wembanyama, whose gold-numbered /10 autographed card closed in spectacular fashion for nearly $800, adding a glimmer of golden promises of potential. For the rookie seekers, Bronny James Jr.’s autograph secured a tidy $145, with Alexandre Sarr following suit at $110—prices that suggest the future is as bright as the studios at ESPN on draft night.

It’s not just the autographs and inserts that have tongues wagging. The ever-elusive Superfractors add a layer of mystique to the hobbyist hunt. Superfractors have become the Mt. Everest of collectibles—the summit every climber dreams of conquering. Albeit few have trickled into eager palms yet, the Trae Young 1-of-1 blossomed in value and community clout by fetching $172 at auction—a seemingly accessible price for a card with such rarity and future potential.

Hobby boxes, holding the keys to these treasures, remain surprisingly budget-friendly. Their price range from $150 to $200 makes them the ticket every hopeful collector can afford—relatively speaking, of course. Such pricing allows both weekend warriors and the over-committed card chasers to share the same adrenaline-fueled space. There’s a shared exhilaration in cracking open a fresh box, each pack holding the possibility of life’s next excitement just beneath the foil.

With its captivating design, vibrant splashes of color, and spread of both new and familiar faces, the 2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball has caught the attention of casual collectors and downright card disciples alike. These collectors gravitate towards a Goldilocks zone of cost, potential return, and sheer card-collecting joy—a rare trifecta indeed. Topps Chrome Basketball isn’t merely a collection; it’s an event, a spectacle that draws the collective gaze, and falls like cherry blossom petals into the carefully arranged albums of enthusiasts around the world.

The debut success of this season’s Topps Chrome Basketball speaks volumes to its desirability and positioning in the hobbyist stratosphere. Armed with both innovative theft and throwbacks, it seems poised to capture hearts and wallet share this season—and possibly longer. As hobbyists revel in the chase and share their wins on social media, the question becomes not if they’ll pursue another box, but how many they will tear into by season’s end.

So, as collectors meticulously plan their next purchase and strategize trades, the only play that’s truly cardinal is to stay ahead of the game. After all, much like the thrilling unpredictability of a game-sealing bucket, the world of card collecting is filled with surprises and scintillating moments just waiting to be discovered. Welcome to the season’s big tip-off, where each card potentially holds the promise of a game-winning shot.

2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball

In the vibrant and competitive world of sports memorabilia, it’s hard not to notice the dazzling spotlight that shines upon the illustrious 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan rookie card. Often referred to as the crown jewel in any collector’s stash, it garners feverish attention and astronomical bids. However, there lies an enticing, albeit more discreet treasure: the 1989 Fleer Michael Jordan card, specifically the #21. This card, the rookie’s often overshadowed cousin, is quietly marking its territory in the hearts and collections of aficionados worldwide. And the upward trajectory of its value graph is singing a sweet tune to those in the know.

Imagine sitting in a collector’s den, your eyes dancing over the glimmering sheen of encapsulated cards. In one corner rests the revered 1986 Fleer, its legendary status almost filling the room with a palpable aura. But nestled not too far away, edging into the limelight with subtle persistence, is the 1989 Fleer edition. For collectors with discerning taste but not necessarily an expense account resembling an NBA player’s salary, the 1989 Fleer offers a delectable middle path.

Rewind to 2021, when securing a PSA 10 gem mint version of the 1989 Fleer cost about $1,001. It wasn’t exactly chump change, but nor did it require taking out a second mortgage. Advance to June 2025, and the narrative subtly shifts: the same PSA 10 now commands a price tag of roughly $1,200. That’s a tidy 20% increase over four years—not exactly the stuff of breathless headlines but certainly a respectable, steady climb. In the nuanced discipline of card collecting, the tortoise sometimes outruns the hare.

A quick nod to the numbers: according to Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), there are approximately 1,240 PSA 10s alongside over 11,000 PSA 9s in circulation. On the surface, it appears quite a substantial supply, yet the incessant demand tells a different story. Collectors and enthusiasts alike are realizing that not every Jordan-related collectible needs to break the bank to offer satisfaction—both aesthetically and financially.

What might catch even the casual observer’s eye is the meteoric rise in raw copies. Cast your mind back to 2022, when a raw 1989 Fleer Jordan could change hands for a mere six dollars. Fast forward to the present, and you’d be hard-pressed to snag one for less than twenty bucks. That’s more than a threefold increase, and this appreciation isn’t due to it being a coveted promo or glossy special insert—it’s simply a base-era Jordan once relegated to the background, now making waves.

What exactly is fueling this newfound affection for the 1989 Fleer card? For starters, rising grading fees have nudged collectors toward cards that are already slabbed, adding a layer of convenience and appeal. Nostalgia, too, plays a pivotal role; the late ’80s weren’t just about big hair and synth-pop. It was an era teeming with electrifying hoops action, an era when MJ was solidifying his legend, often one awe-inspiring play at a time. For many, owning a piece of this history—even sans the premium price tag—is worthwhile.

Unlike other cards that might shout their significance with flashy aesthetics or infamous snapshots of dunking heroics over Knicks centers, the 1989 Fleer is content with whispering, “Hey, look at me.” There’s something profoundly attractive about this understatement. In an age where subtlety often gets lost amidst the glitzy and the sensational, the 1989 Fleer stands out precisely because it doesn’t demand your attention—it earns it.

For collectors eyeing both value and future prospects, the 1989 Fleer deserves a thoughtful second look. It’s a card that reflects Jordan in his ascendancy during the burgeoning Bulls frenzy—a precious collectible for the astute curator of sports memorabilia. Michael Jordan didn’t require the rookie designation to mesmerize on the hardwood, much like his 1989 Fleer doesn’t need the blaring spotlight to promise rewarding appreciations. And for the collector looking for something beyond the usual high-value suspects, this gem might be just the right play.

1989 Fleer Michael Jordan

In the glittering world of collectible sports cards, it often only takes the sparkle of a single diamond to draw the attention of enthusiasts worldwide. For Michael Jordan cards, that gem has long been the illustrious 1986 Fleer rookie card, widely celebrated as the holy grail for collectors. However, not all that glitters centers on rookie royalty. Enter the 1989 Fleer card, a somewhat unassuming contender that has slyly inched forward beneath the shadow of its more famous cousin, offering a cost-effective entry point to Michael Jordan’s cardboard legacy that is beginning to dazzle collectors in its own right.

Conceived during an era burgeoning with basketball brilliance, the 1989 Fleer #21 card has been climbing its own ladder of value with the tenacity and grace of MJ himself on a historic dunk. While it may not have the rookie prestige, it compensates with an intriguing niche appeal. Case in point: back in 2021, if you dug into your pockets, a PSA 10-rated copy of this card would set you back roughly $1,001. Roll the timeline forward to June 2025, and you’ve got a card pulling in around $1,200 when in pristine condition, marking a respectable and steady 20% increase in value.

Despite an epic supply chain of roughly 1,240 PSA 10s and over 11,000 PSA 9s languishing in the market, collectors seem unperturbed, embracing this budget-friendly sideshow act. Why might one ask? The 1989 Fleer is a testament to the joy of collecting without financially upending your life; it offers affordability without forsaking prestige, a rare balance in the gripping world of sports memorabilia.

It’s especially fascinating to witness the meteoric rise in raw, ungraded copies of the same card. Back in the year 2022, when the air was crisper and the turf slightly greener, these cards were obtainable for a measly six bucks—barely enough for a decent sandwich. Fast forward to today, a loose card could easily triple that amount, demanding a $20 tag. This noticeable leap isn’t spurred by glittering promotional clout or special edition flair. It’s MJ, unadorned and authentic—a piece of the late ’80s basketball epoch that was once relegated to the masses, now thrust into a new spotlight.

The intrigue surrounding the rising affection for the 1989 Fleer may come down to a cocktail of influences. The escalating costs of card grading have seen surges, thus encouraging collectors to gravitate towards already certified cards. Additionally, nostalgia plays a luminous role; late ’80s basketball, with all its hypnotic grandeur, holds an indelible place in the hearts of many, sparking a wave of sentimentality that powers collecting choices today. Is it any wonder, then, that an expertly crafted card depicting Jordan, suavely capturing his mid-career glow, appeals to those whose wallets anticipate a bit more mercy?

The 1989 Fleer may not carry the flashiness of a slam dunk image or a nose-bleed-high valuation, but it does represent Michael Jordan in his ascendancy, a slice of Bulls mania that feels less like a sprint for riches and more a thoughtful, steadfast marathon. It’s a choice for those among us who prefer their collecting with a degree of strategy—a game plan beyond the brash pursuit of only the most expensive treasures.

So, if finding value while navigating long-term collecting goals intrigues you—or perhaps you’re one to re-discover the overlooked items in life that hold the promise of greater stature—consider paying closer attention to the 1989 Fleer card. Michael Jordan never needed the outsider’s validation to solidify his greatness on the court, and by the same philosophy, this particular Fleer issue doesn’t need the limelight to affirm its place in the hearts of discerning collectors worldwide. This unlikely underdog is finally earning its time—and price—due, beginning to make waves in the bustling waters of the sports card scene.

1989 Fleer Michael Jordan

You know that age-old adage about the grass always being greener on the other side? Well, for Antwone Tate, a FedEx worker stationed at the Memphis Hub, greener pastures meant a treasure trove full of sparkling jewels, glittering gold bars, and coveted baseball cards. Move over, ordinary nine-to-five; Tate was busy plotting his getaway scheme into the flashy world of stolen valuables. But like an episode of a poorly planned heist, everything came crashing down in the most cliché way possible.

Tate allegedly believed that his FedEx job came with an inbuilt perk of “finders keepers.” Suspicious package disappearances on May 27 flagged him like a bright red target. It was an elaborate, albeit sloppy, game of hide and seek—one where Tate sought out packages that carried intriguing booty. The most blaring of the missing items were an $8,500 diamond ring, gold bars worth nearly $14,000, and an enviable stash of vintage baseball cards that could make any collector reach for their smelling salts.

How was this operation busted, you ask? Well, it seems that Tate didn’t attend the “Smart Thievery 101” classes—or maybe he just slept through them. Following the investigation into missing packages, officials scooped up the scent—a lure as unmistakable as a cologne advert for the wealthy—and traced it straight to a local pawn shop. In a move straight out of a comedy of errors, Tate had nonchalantly pawned the items, thinking that using his own driver’s license would be as invisible as a magician’s act. Note to future heisters: It’s a terribly weak disguise.

Adding to the FedEx worker’s tale of bungled larceny were packages containing baseball nostalgia, missing with unabashed boldness. Among the cardboard casualties was a 1915 Cracker Jack Chief Bender and a 1933 Goudey Sport Kings Ty Cobb. These weren’t just cards—they were legends in cardboard chronicle, and it’s said they have a collective value of about $6,800. Again, law enforcement traced their prodigal journey into the hands of many an eager buyer on the e-commerce giant eBay.

The plot thickens as the seller’s account name popped up like a ghost of confessions past. “antta_57” should have been spelled out as “iamguilty_100”. Needless to say, the virtual paper trail led directly back to the irreverent purveyor of all things purloined, Mr. Tate himself.

Of course, this modern-day Pilferer of Packages isn’t sailing into the sunset with his loot; he’s now on the wrong end of a charge for theft of property. FedEx has since parted with Tate in the corporate equivalent of a stern paternal “you’re grounded, for good.” They issued a statement, brisk and clear, ensuring the public knows that pilfering precious items is officially not in line with their job description.

From cashing in a diamond ring to unloading historical baseball artworks at a variable “buy it now” price, Tate’s side hustle reached an unsophisticated end. Let’s not even pretend that this story doesn’t serve both as a cautionary tale and a weirdly aesthetic package tracking plot—consider it a real-life interpretation of what not to do when your day job just doesn’t cut the mustard.

Future delivery service employees, take heed—when a package says “signature required,” it might just be telling you that illegal signatures are not going to cut it. As for those of you waiting on a delivery with anxious anticipation, next time your package confirms “out for delivery” and vanishes into thin air, you might just find it circulating in the wild, wild web of e-commerce. But beware, lest ye be entangled in an internet drama worthy of a FedEx thriller, a reminder to never place a bid on auctions by anyone that might sound remotely like “antta_58.”

Tate’s theft was less a sophisticated heist and more a bungling of basic criminal know-how, right from unintentionally leaving bread crumbs leading to his own undoing. From the driver’s license blunder to the self-incriminating online presence, the caper might not get an “A” for competence, but it’s surely making waves for its plain absurdity, making it a tale to be recounted for posterity.

fedex card thief

In the busy corridors of FedEx’s Memphis Hub, where packages zip through on a relentless, merry-go-round of logistics, one employee apparently mistook the job for a side hustle opportunity featuring diamonds, gold, and rare baseball cards. Antwone Tate, whose resume has now been inadvertently expanded to include “alleged thief,” decided that some packages just had his name on them — literally and, more daringly, figuratively.

This unconventional employee perk scheme unraveled when FedEx’s Loss Prevention team noticed a few too many packages going Houdini on May 27. Their suspicions were confirmed as the team followed the sparkling breadcrumbs all the way to a local pawn shop. There, resting in the shop’s gleaming treasure trove, were the spoils of his personal postal escapade: an $8,500 diamond ring and close to $14,000 in gold bars. It’s almost as if disaster had tucked a business card into Tate’s pocket when he handed over his real ID at the pawn shop, warning him that using personal details while fencing loot is a rookie mistake.

If diamonds and gold weren’t enough to whet Tate’s appetite for risk, a third missing package sprinkled some sweet baseball nostalgia onto the scandal-laden cake. Included in this disappearing act was a 1915 Cracker Jack Chief Bender and a 1933 Goudey Sport Kings Ty Cobb card — relics from baseball’s golden days, worth approximately $6,800 collectively.

These baseball memorabilia, it seems, took a virtual trip from the warehouse shelves to the digital auction house of eBay under the rather transparent alias “antta_57,” as if holding a sign saying “I might be a FedEx employee with sticky fingers.” A short investigation later, and it was clear: the account was a direct line back to Tate, who may have confused clever with criminally convenient.

Tate now faces charges of theft of property for his triple play in package misappropriation. For FedEx, handling the aftermath seemed almost routine. They issued a swift corporate swipe, confirming that Tate is no longer enriching their employment roster and reminding the public—while perhaps through gritted teeth—that picking up packages and walking off with them for personal gain isn’t actually in the job description.

This high-stakes game of “finders keepers” brings to light a moral, if only there were an ancient line about toying with diamonds and trading cards. Alas, while there’s no proverb to cloak this escapade, one can’t help but appreciate the irony: a Ferris wheel of fate that ensured all packages must come full circle, however twisted the route.

The whole saga raises elements of a downright Dickensian drama transposed into modern courier chaos. For Tate, a possible behind-bars stint is far from a fairytale ending, but there’s perhaps a lesson buried in the glitter and nostalgia—should distance between retrieval and remorse be close enough for reflection.

While FedEx tightens its security measures like an eager scout protecting their cookies, other employees might now have a heightened awareness that isn’t paralleled by audacity. As for the rest of us, next time the delivery app states “out for delivery” and your eagerly anticipated package doesn’t materialize at your doorstep, scanning eBay for “great deals” becomes oddly relevant. Just remember, if you see a user named “antta_58,” steer clear and keep your wallet secured from this encore performance of delivery drama.

fedex card thief

In the ever-evolving world of sports memorabilia, where fans and collectors alike hold the past in reverential regard, a singular piece of basketball history recently commanded an impressive sum. At the heart of this captivating tale sits a 2009 Upper Deck Exquisite Dual Logoman Autograph card featuring none other than the basketball titans, LeBron James and the dearly missed Kobe Bryant. This extraordinary card didn’t just cross the million-dollar threshold—it sprinted past it with the same gusto both athletes displayed on the court, fetching an awe-inspiring $1,161,440 at a Goldin Auctions event.

What makes this card truly unique is not just its hefty price tag. It’s a one-of-a-kind artifact, holding the only NBA Logoman patches and autographs of both James and Bryant on a single card. Were it framed and hung on walls, this card could be likened to a modern masterpiece, akin to a Da Vinci of the sports world, signifying the confluence of talent and triumph. Graded PSA 6.5, with the on-card autographs themselves snagging a PSA 9, the card stands as a testament to the excellence of its featured athletes even as its less-than-perfect rating testifies to the ravages of time and handling.

Though some might balk at its compromised condition grade, those sharp edges and slight imperfections hold a quiet symphony that speaks of stories untold. Wherever this card has been, it has clearly been cherished—or perhaps, too eagerly shared among fervent fans.

This singular piece emerged as part of Goldin’s Spring Elite Auction in 2025, drawing spirited participation from 11 eager bidders before the gavel descended. Yet, despite its heady achievement in currency conversion, this card’s ascent reaches slightly less vertiginous heights compared to another iconic piece: a 2006 Upper Deck Exquisite Triple Logoman card. This card, flaunting the celebrated trio LeBron, Kobe, and the godlike presence of Michael Jordan, flew off auction shelves for a dizzying $1.68 million in the sultry month of August 2022.

Goldin Auctions, a seasoned connoisseur in the realm of basketball collectibles, consistently unwraps treasures from the vaults of sports history. Earlier, a 2004–05 Upper Deck Exquisite dual Logoman autograph, again pairing LeBron with Kobe, charmed its way to $840,000 in June 2023, holding its own sterling reputation intact with a perfect 10 auto grade.

The hammer fall on this most recent auction not only further cements the seemingly inexhaustible demand for precious Logoman cards but also highlights the indelible marks both these phenomenal athletes have left in the annals of sport. As premium Kobe Bryant autographs become as rare as seeing a blue moon perform a double dribble, enthusiasts with pockets deep enough to touch the ocean floor willingly shell out fortunes to bask in the reflective glory such collectibles afford.

But let’s take a step back, beyond the figures and the facts, and acknowledge what these pieces truly represent: legacy. Each scratch of ink from Kobe Bryant whispers tales of Mamba Mentality—a relentless pursuit of honed perfection and unyielding spirit that transcended the parquet floors to reach celestial heights. LeBron James’ ascent from Akron to the global stage, encapsulated in every cryptic line of his autograph, echoes dreams of greatness achieved through raw talent, vision, and unbending determination.

Together on this remarkable card, LeBron and Kobe represent not just the accomplishments of two remarkable careers but an era of basketball that forever changed the way the game is played, perceived, and enjoyed. In collecting, just as in the sport itself, it’s not merely what one possesses, but what those possessions mean; it’s the stories they tell and their power to inspire, remind, and resonate.

In the world of high-stakes auctions and impassioned collectors, passing down a legacy often manifests not in the form of courts or player jerseys festooned with sweat but in the gentle glide of ink flaring across cardboard. For those who participate, it’s an ongoing dance—between the numbers bid and the stories that money alone can’t tell. As the fickle hands of time continue their dance, one truth holds steadfast: legends, like the cards that immortalize them, never fade away—they live on in stories, etched in passion, painted in perseverance.

Lebron and Kobe Dual Logoman