Belk, a renowned retailer, has forged a new alliance with Fanatics, a prominent digital sports platform and leading provider of licensed sports merchandise. This strategic collaboration aims to elevate Belk’s product range by granting customers direct access to a diverse selection of licensed sports gear available from Fanatics.

In this mutually beneficial partnership, Belk will manage the online shopping interface on its website and app, while Fanatics will take charge of fulfilling and shipping orders. This synergy ensures a smooth and hassle-free shopping journey for customers, enabling them to explore an expanded collection of sports merchandise seamlessly.

MaryAnne Morin, President and Chief Merchandising Officer at Belk, expressed, “Our customers take great pride in displaying their team allegiances, whether for college or professional teams. This partnership with Fanatics is a win-win for our customers as it allows us to further broaden our existing range of licensed sports fan gear, offering an even greater diversity of product categories.”

Through this collaboration, Belk patrons can now peruse a substantial portion of Fanatics’ inventory, featuring licensed merchandise for various teams and athletes across premier leagues and sports properties. The assortment encompasses a wide array of apparel, jerseys, headwear, and other fan essentials from renowned brands like Nike, adidas, Mitchell & Ness, New Era, and Fanatics’ own label. Initially, the focus on Belk.com will be NCAA fan gear, with offerings from other leagues set to be introduced as their respective seasons near.

Brian Swallow, Fanatics’ SVP of Strategy and Corporate Development, shared his enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Fanatics is excited to collaborate with Belk and curate a selection of licensed sports merchandise catering to its sports-loving customer base. This enhanced shopping experience will significantly broaden the fan gear choices available, showcasing a plethora of high-quality products, designs, and brands while maintaining an online interface consistent with what Belk’s shoppers are accustomed to.”

This alliance signifies a notable advancement for both companies, granting Belk customers an enhanced shopping experience with a wider array of licensed sports merchandise to choose from, all while benefiting from the convenience of Belk’s established online platform. The partnership between Belk and Fanatics embodies a synergy that promises sports enthusiasts an enriching and seamless shopping journey for all their licensed sports merchandise needs.

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The Football Association (FA) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its global presence in merchandise sales by renewing and expanding its partnership with Fanatics, a leading digital sports platform. The decision to expand the collaboration follows a surge in merchandise sales, especially after the exceptional success of Euro 2024, where England merchandise set new records in popularity.

Fanatics will maintain its position as the holder of eCommerce rights with the FA, managing the official online England Store. In addition to this, Fanatics will oversee retail operations during England’s home games, domestic cup finals, and concerts at Wembley Stadium. The partnership has evolved to include a new role for Fanatics in sourcing licensees, ensuring top-tier merchandise across all FA product categories.

The growth in England Men’s and Women’s merchandise sales through the official online England Store and Wembley Stadium store drove the decision to expand the partnership. Fanatics has been instrumental in achieving various milestones since the partnership began in 2018, with the standout success being the record-breaking sales during Euro 2024. The launch of the 2024 kit also shattered previous records on its debut day.

James Gray, the Commercial Director at the Football Association, expressed his satisfaction with the renewed partnership, pointing out the significant growth across retail and merchandising channels. He highlighted the positive impact of this growth on the development of football at all levels, from grassroots to the professional game. Gray emphasized the FA’s commitment to providing fans with an exceptional shopping experience both online and in-person, offering a wide range of world-class merchandise for supporters worldwide.

The expanded partnership with Fanatics solidifies the company’s foothold in international football, with existing partnerships with major football associations such as the FFF, DFB, FIGC, RBFA, and AFA. Fanatics also serves as the official partner for UEFA in licensing, eCommerce, and event retail, managing online and event retail for Euro 2024.

Stephen Dowling, the International President of Fanatics, expressed his enthusiasm about the extended partnership, highlighting it as a privilege to serve fans of the iconic Three Lions and Lionesses teams. He acknowledged the high levels of fan optimism post successful tournaments and reiterated their commitment to bringing England fans closer to their favorite players and national teams.

This expanded partnership between the FA and Fanatics signals a new era in their relationship, promising enhanced experiences and products for England football fans worldwide. Fans can look forward to even greater engagement and access to merchandise that allows them to express their passion for the national teams, no matter where they are located.

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Buckle up, collectors, because this week is about to get a lot shinier with a lineup of Topps Chrome releases that will have you reaching for your wallet faster than you can say “refractor.” Topps is known for its high-quality cards, and this week’s offerings are no exception, covering a wide range of interests from sports to the galaxy far, far away.

Kicking things off is the highly anticipated 2024 Bowman Chrome release, scheduled for Wednesday at 12 PM EST. This classic set, known as the OG of shiny baseball cards, has been a favorite among prospecting enthusiasts since its debut in 1997. The set continues its tradition of featuring future Hall of Famers’ first autographs and comes with an exciting promise of two autographs per Hobby Box. With the price still to be announced, it’s time to start saving those pennies.

For the Star Wars fans out there, the 2024 Star Wars Chrome release is landing on the same day at 1 PM EST. Explore a galaxy far, far away with 10 cards per pack and 10 packs per box, including one guaranteed autograph in each Hobby box. Whether you’re a Jedi Master of card collecting or a padawan, this set is sure to bring the Force into your collection at a price of $109.99 per box.

Soccer aficionados have something to celebrate with the 2023/24 Topps Chrome UCC Sapphire release on Thursday at 12 PM EST. This shiny set features 4 cards per pack and 8 packs per box, with each box containing a coveted autograph. Priced at $429.99 for Hobby boxes, this set promises to bring the best of the beautiful game to collectors who appreciate the sport’s finesse.

Basketball fans, rejoice! The 2024 Overtime Elite Chrome release is making its debut on Wednesday at 1 PM EST. Priced at $59.99 per box, this set offers 8 cards per pack and 12 packs per box, with two autographs awaiting lucky collectors. Whether you’re chasing the next big thing in hoops or simply love the game, this release is a slam dunk for your collection.

And let’s not forget about the daily excitement of Topps Now, where collectors can expect new releases every day across various themes. It’s a fantastic way to keep the card-collecting journey fresh and exciting, with something new to discover regularly.

In conclusion, the Topps Chrome releases of the week offer something for every collector, whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a Star Wars aficionado. Get ready to unwrap shiny treasures and add some sparkle to your collection. May the hits be with you!

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Panini has spooked football card enthusiasts with the announcement of their Halloween-themed 2024 Score-a-Treat Football release. Bringing a festive flair to the collecting scene, these cards are not just for trick-or-treaters but are bound to entice collectors looking for something out of the ordinary.

The concept behind the 2024 Score-a-Treat Football set is to infuse the spirit of Halloween into the world of sports cards. Drawing inspiration from holiday-themed trading card releases like Pokémon’s Halloween packs, Panini has transformed its popular 2024 Score Football cards into a spooktacular delight. Similar to Topps’ baseball parallels, these Halloween cards offer a fresh take on familiar designs.

Featuring a 349-card checklist, the 2024 Score-a-Treat Football set includes 300 veteran players and 49 Rising Stars, all adorned with Halloween-inspired elements such as jack-o’-lanterns and cobwebs. Collectors will be delighted to discover unique parallels with themed borders like Pumpkins, Bats, and Trick or Treat, adding a touch of whimsy to their collections.

Each pack of Score-a-Treat Football comprises three cards, with 40 packs bundled together for a ghastly good time. Priced at just over $20 per bundle, these cards offer an accessible and enjoyable alternative to traditional Halloween treats.

Here’s an overview of the 2024 Score-a-Treat Football cards:

– Cards per pack: 3

– Packs per bundle: 40

– Set size: 349 cards

– Release date: August 2024 (subject to change)

Whether you’re a devoted collector or simply someone looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween, the 2024 Score-a-Treat Football release promises a unique and spirited experience. Embrace the excitement of the season with these affordable and entertaining cards that are sure to cast a spell on football card enthusiasts everywhere.

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Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the world of sports cards with Galaxy Rip Packs – the Silver Edition! These repack products are not just your ordinary card packs; they are a ticket to unparalleled excitement, mystery, and value that will keep collectors of all levels coming back for more.

Galaxy Rip Packs truly stand out in the world of sports card collecting. With the promise of unmatched excitement and value, each pack offers a thrilling experience that ranges from the anticipation of uncovering a hidden gem to the adrenaline rush of discovering a high-value card worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It’s the ultimate treasure hunt in every pack, making each unboxing a heart-pounding adventure.

The magic of Galaxy Rip Packs lies in the element of mystery and intrigue. As you tear open each pack, the anticipation builds, and the excitement of what you might find keeps you on the edge of your seat. It’s the unknown that makes these packs so irresistible, turning every unboxing into a story of surprise and delight.

Covering a wide range of sports, Galaxy Rip Packs offer an all-inclusive experience for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of football, basketball, baseball, or any other sport, there’s something in these packs for everyone. From rookie cards to legendary players, each pack holds the potential to reveal your next prized possession, adding a layer of excitement to every collection.

What sets Galaxy Rip Packs apart as a must-have for collectors is their diverse selection of sports cards. Each pack is carefully curated to include raw or graded cards from various sports, ensuring that there’s something for every type of fan. This diversity makes Galaxy Rip Packs a valuable addition to any collection, offering a mix of cards that cater to different tastes and preferences.

With a strong commitment to quality, Galaxy Rip Packs assure collectors of high-quality cards in every pack. Whether raw or graded, each card is handpicked for its potential value and pristine condition, making every pack a special and rewarding experience for collectors looking for unique finds.

The allure of Galaxy Rip Packs lies in the endless possibilities they offer. The excitement of potentially uncovering a rare and valuable card adds a thrilling unpredictability to each unboxing, keeping collectors intrigued and eager to rip open the next pack in search of their next great discovery.

Join an enthusiastic community of sports card collectors who share a passion for Galaxy Rip Packs. Connect with like-minded individuals, share your card discoveries, and immerse yourself in the excitement of the hobby alongside others who appreciate the thrill of the chase.

Priced at just $74.99, Galaxy Rip Packs are affordable and promise incredible value and endless possibilities for collectors. Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or simply enjoy the thrill of the unknown, Galaxy Rip Packs offer an unforgettable experience that is just a rip away from your next great find.

Unleash the excitement and dive into the world of Galaxy Rip Packs today. Experience the thrill, uncover rare cards, and join a vibrant community of sports card enthusiasts on a journey filled with mystery, value, and endless possibilities.

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Upper Deck, a prominent player in the world of sports collectibles, is taking a giant leap towards recognizing and empowering college athletes through a groundbreaking partnership. By teaming up with The Brandr Group, a leading student-athlete NIL representation agency, and CLC, the primary collegiate brand licensing company in the nation, Upper Deck is set to showcase a fresh line of trading cards focusing on name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights of college athletes.

The forthcoming Upper Deck World of Sports™ Volume 1 Trading Card Set is a testament to the dedication and talent of student-athletes from diverse colleges nationwide. From the awe-inspiring University of Nebraska women’s volleyball team to the triumphant University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s field hockey squad, these cards will shine a spotlight on a multitude of athletes across various sports. The collaboration with CLC, representing over 600 top universities, ensures a wide array of officially licensed college programs will be featured in this innovative card set.

With a legacy of 35 years in the sports trading card industry, Upper Deck has set high standards for quality and authenticity catering to professional athletes worldwide. Now, with a sharp focus on NIL rights, Upper Deck is delving into the realm of emerging college athletes. From softball to gymnastics, field hockey to soccer, and basketball to football, these trading cards will showcase the talents and stories of both male and female athletes, allowing fans to connect with the rising stars in the collegiate sports arena.

National champion pitcher Jordy Bahl expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “It is an honor to have my softball journey immortalized in these trading cards. I am thrilled to share my story with fans, family, and all those who have supported me.” President of Upper Deck, Jason Masherah emphasized the significance of these NIL agreements in empowering athletes and promoting gender equality in underrepresented sports, noting the importance of rewarding success regardless of gender or sport.

Jim Neish, Vice President of Licensing and Business Development at The Brandr Group, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the role of these trading cards in elevating the profiles of collegiate athletes across all sports. This partnership aims to provide recognition and visibility to student-athletes, regardless of the sport they excel in, paving the way for future success both on and off the field.

The Upper Deck World of Sports Volume 1 Trading Card Set will soon be available for purchase at local hobby shops, retailers, and online platforms. Stay tuned to UpperDeck.com for the latest updates on this exciting venture, where the future stars of collegiate sports will come to life through these innovative trading cards.

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A significant blow marred the concluding moments of the National Sports Collectors Convention in Cleveland, as a sports card dealer from New Jersey fell victim to a costly theft. An approximate sum of $275,000 in cash vanished from his vehicle on Sunday, July 28, leaving a trail of dismay in its wake.

The unfortunate incident took place at the I-X Center, where the 48-year-old dealer was in the process of loading his SUV post-event. The stolen cash, accompanied by two iPads, had been securely placed in a black briefcase within the confines of the vehicle. Despite the dealer’s belief that he had locked his SUV, the briefcase was cunningly snatched while he was momentarily away.

According to reports from Cleveland Police First District detectives, the pilfered briefcase, equipped with an air tag, was later discovered on the premises of the I-X Center. However, the heart of the matter lay in the fact that the substantial amount of cash that had been housed inside was nowhere to be found.

In an effort to crack the case, law enforcement officials are currently on the lookout for two suspects who were sighted making their exit from the scene in a blue Honda Odyssey van.

Individuals possessing any information pertinent to the theft are urged to promptly reach out to the First District Detective Unit at (216) 623-5118 or alternatively, provide details through the Crime Stoppers tip line at (216) 252-7463. The collaboration and vigilance of the public could prove instrumental in aiding the authorities to track down the culprits and potentially recover the stolen funds.

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Tom Brady’s last pass as a New England Patriot wasn’t a touchdown or a game-winning moment—it was an interception that ended an era. During the 2020 AFC Wild Card Game against the Tennessee Titans, Brady’s pass to Mohamed Sanu was picked off by Titans’ Logan Ryan, who ran it back for a touchdown. This play not only sealed the Patriots’ fate in that game but also marked the end of Brady’s remarkable 20-year journey with the Patriots.

Fast forward to 2022, Brady and Ryan found themselves teammates once again, this time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It was during their time together in Tampa that Ryan approached Brady with a unique request—to sign and inscribe the football from that final Patriots play. And Brady, ever the sportsman, gladly obliged, leaving his mark on the Wilson “Duke” ball with the words “Last Pass As A Patriot,” “1/4/20,” and “Logan Ryan INT.”

The autographed football quickly gained attention on social media, captivating fans of both players and igniting a viral sensation. But beyond the buzz surrounding this historic piece of football memorabilia lies a deeper purpose—the compassionate hearts of both Brady and Ryan when it comes to animal welfare.

In Tampa, Brady and Ryan, along with their families, dedicated their time to supporting animal causes. They volunteered at the Tampa Bay Humane Society, even extending their love for animals by adopting a kitten. Inspired by their shared commitment to helping furry friends in need, Ryan made the decision to auction the iconic football through Goldin Auctions, with all proceeds directed towards the Ryan Animal Rescue Foundation (RARF).

Established by Ryan and his wife, Ashley, the RARF aims to make a difference in the lives of animals by offering financial help and educational support to shelters and rescue organizations. The upcoming auction of the football offers collectors and Brady enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of history while contributing to a cause that’s close to the hearts of both players.

The Wilson “Duke” ball has been authenticated as the same football from Brady’s final pass as a Patriot, with a Letter of Authenticity from PSA/DNA and a Letter of Provenance signed by Logan Ryan himself, cementing its significance and value. As anticipation builds for the auction, bidders can rest assured that their contributions will directly benefit RARF’s noble mission of aiding animals in need.

The auction of the football symbolizes more than just a moment in football lore—it represents a fresh start for animals who will benefit from the charitable proceeds, as well as a testament to the generosity and goodwill of athletes like Ryan and Brady. This unique opportunity to own a piece of NFL history with a heartwarming twist is a reminder of the impact sports figures can have beyond the playing field.

With the auction expected to draw considerable interest from fans and collectors alike, the stage is set for a momentous event that blends sports history with philanthropy. For those eager to participate and support animal welfare through this unique auction, Goldin Auctions will be the platform hosting the bidding process, ensuring that every dollar raised goes towards RARF’s mission of improving the lives of animals in need.

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The revival of a classic in the world of basketball card collecting has arrived with the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set. After a hiatus since 2009, this iconic brand has made its triumphant return, showcasing a blend of current NBA stars, exciting rookies, and beloved legends, all within a collection officially licensed by the NBA Players Association.

Although the set is not officially licensed by the NBA itself due to Panini’s exclusive rights, it still captures the essence of the sport with player depictions, albeit without full pro uniforms and team logos. However, the hallmark quality and appeal of Topps Chrome are unmistakably present in this release.

One of the key highlights of the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set is the plethora of Refractor variations available to collectors. With nearly 30 different Refractor options, including unique versions like Geometric Refractors and basketball background parallels, this set offers a visually stunning array of cards that are sure to catch the eye of enthusiasts.

Autographs also take center stage in this collection, featuring an impressive lineup that includes Topps Chrome Autographs, Certified Rookie Autographs, and retail-exclusive Certified Autographs. Notably, the set boasts on-card autographs from Victor Wembanyama, the highly touted 2023-24 Rookie of the Year, who signed an exclusive deal with Fanatics. As a result of this partnership, Wembanyama’s autographs are exclusive to Topps Chrome, making his cards a hot commodity among collectors.

The presence of basketball icon LeBron James further elevates the set, with this release marking only his second autograph appearance following his transition to a Fanatics exclusive. Fans can also find his autograph in a special dual card with his son Bronny James in the 2023-24 Bowman Chrome University Basketball set.

Adding a touch of nostalgia and prestige are the autographs from NBA legends such as Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal, enriching the collection with the timeless appeal of these basketball greats.

In addition to autographs, collectors can look forward to a diverse range of vibrant inserts included in each hobby pack. From Coast to Coast to Destiny, Finesse, Season’s Best, and Youthquake, these inserts feature bold designs and colors that enhance the visual allure of the cards.

Furthermore, the set includes Short Print (SSP) inserts like Exposé, Superfly, Let’s Go!, Helix, Radiating Rookies, and Rock Stars, with the latter paying homage to a classic Topps insert from the 1990s, catering to collectors who appreciate a nostalgic touch.

The product details reveal that each hobby pack contains 8 cards, with 12 packs in a box and 12 boxes in a case. The set comprises 190 cards in total, with an expected release date of August 28, 2024, subject to change. Each hobby box is set to contain two autographs, in addition to a selection of inserts and Refractors, making it a thrilling unboxing experience for collectors.

The market response to the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set has been overwhelmingly positive, with pre-sales for boxes and cases selling out quickly. This enthusiastic reception underscores the strong demand and anticipation surrounding this product, as collectors eagerly embrace the return of the iconic Topps Chrome brand.

As Topps looks forward to reclaiming the full NBA license in 2025, the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set serves as a pivotal step in reintroducing the brand to the basketball card market. With collectors eagerly awaiting future releases and expansions, Topps continues to solidify its presence in the industry, promising more excitement and innovation in the years to come.

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