
LeBron James, the legendary NBA player, has made a groundbreaking move in the world of trading card collectibles. He recently signed an exclusive multi-year partnership with Fanatics Collectibles, a division of Fanatics known for its expertise in trading cards and collectibles. This marks the end of his long-standing relationship with Upper Deck, who he had been working with for years in the trading cards and memorabilia market.
Expressing his excitement about this new partnership, LeBron James highlighted his desire to connect with his fans in a more meaningful way. He aims to celebrate the achievements of athletes at their peak and capture both the big and small moments in sports. LeBron’s decision to team up with Fanatics demonstrates his belief in their vision for the future of collectibles.
To kick off this partnership, Fanatics has planned a special release. The 2023-24 Bowman University Chrome Basketball set, set to launch on January 19, will feature an exclusive 1/1 on-card dual autograph card of LeBron and his son, Bronny James. The card will showcase LeBron in his St. Vincent-St. Mary’s high school uniform and Bronny in his USC Trojans jersey. This unique collector’s item pays homage to the bond between father and son, as well as their individual athletic achievements. Furthermore, the set will also include other notable players such as Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, prominent women’s college basketball All-Americans.
Mike Mahan, the CEO of Fanatics Collectibles, expressed his enthusiasm for LeBron James joining the Fanatics family. Mahan aims to push the boundaries of the hobby, fostering enthusiasm among fans and collectors alike. To promote this special card release, Fanatics has created a captivating video titled “Origin of Greatness,” narrated by LeBron James himself. The video showcases the early moments of various Fanatics athlete partners, adding an element of storytelling to the collectibles experience.
LeBron’s partnership with Fanatics is a significant move for the company. It comes after more than two decades of collaboration between LeBron and Upper Deck, during which they built his brand into a highly valuable collectible. Upper Deck acknowledged their long-term relationship with LeBron, recognizing their efforts in elevating his status within the collectibles market. They also expressed gratitude for having the opportunity to work with LeBron and his LeBron James Family Foundation.
The collaboration between LeBron James and Fanatics marks a new chapter in the world of trading card collectibles. With his immense popularity and undeniable impact on the sport, LeBron’s move to Fanatics signals a shift in the industry. Fans and collectors can look forward to the innovative and unique offerings that this partnership will bring, promising an exciting future for the world of trading cards.