Introduction: A Collector’s Dream Team
If you’re an avid NBA card collector, this list is the ultimate dream team. Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), a leading authority in the world of sports cards and collectibles, has compiled the 10 most-collected cards of current professional basketball players. Since the start of the 2024-25 NBA season, collectors have submitted nearly 269,000 cards of these 10 players for evaluation. This dream team is a testament to the players’ popularity and the significant financial impact they have on the collectibles industry. Owned by billionaire Steve Cohen, venture capitalist Nat Turner, and hedge fund magnate Dan Sundheim, PSA offers grading services ranging from $16.99 to a whopping $9,999, depending on the declared value and insurance requirements for the cards. The value and popularity of these cards are driven not only by the players’ on-court success but also by the card’s scarcity and the long-term appeal of the athlete’s memorabilia. Additionally, the condition of the card, as evidenced by PSA’s grading scale, significantly influences its worth, with a grade of 10 being the pinnacle of perfection.
The Phenomenon: Victor Wembanyama
Leading the pack is Victor Wembanyama, the French sensation who was drafted first overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2023 NBA draft and has already claimed the Rookie of the Year title. Wembanyama’s extraordinary talent and unique presence have captivated fans and collectors alike. His one-of-a-kind Panini Prizm card, which sold for an astounding $516,000 at auction last year, underscores the immense value and interest surrounding the young star. Wembanyama’s cards have been sent in for grading a staggering 113,800 times, making him the most-collected player on this list. His impact on the basketball world and the collectibles market is nothing short of revolutionary, with collectors eager to own a piece of his legendary career from its very inception.
The Collegiate Champion: Caitlin Clark
Next in line is Caitlin Clark, the WNBA’s rising star who was drafted as the No. 1 pick by the Indiana Fever in 2023. Clark’s journey to the WNBA is marked by her unprecedented success at the collegiate level, where she broke both men’s and women’s scoring records. Her cards have been submitted for grading 47,100 times, more than any NBA player except Wembanyama. This high demand reflects the growing interest in women’s basketball and Clark’s exceptional talent, which has already set her apart as a future hall-of-famer. Her popularity among collectors is a testament to her charisma and the significant milestones she has achieved, making her cards a valuable asset in the collectibles market.
The Legendary Star: LeBron James
LeBron James, a name synonymous with greatness in the NBA, comes in third with 24,900 card-grading requests. James’s cards have reached astronomical values, with one selling for $5.2 million at auction, though surprisingly, this price does not place among the top 10 most expensive sports collectibles. A four-time MVP and a player who has earned more than $1.5 billion in his NBA career, James’s influence extends far beyond the basketball court. His enduring popularity and consistent performance have made his cards a prized possession for collectors, reflecting his status as one of the game’s all-time greats.
The Young Sensation: Anthony Edwards
Anthony Edwards, the Minnesota Timberwolves’ star, has garnered 20,200 card-grading requests. Edwards, a three-time All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, is the youngest NBA player to reach 1,000 3-pointers, achieving this feat at the age of 23. His remarkable skills and early success have made him a favorite among young collectors, who see him as the future of the league. Edwards’s cards are highly sought after, not just for their value but for the potential they represent, making him a key player in this dream team.
The Injured Wonder: Brandon Miller
Despite being ruled out for the season in January due to a wrist injury, Brandon Miller has still managed to capture the hearts of collectors with 16,900 card-grading requests. The former Alabama star and current small forward for the Charlotte Hornets averaged an impressive 21 points per game in his 27 appearances this season. Miller’s potential and the anticipation of his return have only heightened the demand for his cards, showing that even a temporary setback cannot diminish his popularity or the value of his collectibles.
The Three-Point Maestro: Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry, the player who has redefined the art of the three-point shot, has 13,800 card-grading requests to his name. Curry holds the record for the most NBA 3-pointers of all time and has been named MVP twice. His journey from a relatively low-rated high school prospect to one of the most popular players in the league is a story of perseverance and talent. A recent Under Armour tour in China had to be called off due to government concerns over crowd sizes, highlighting his immense following. Curry’s cards are highly valued for their quality and his historical significance, making him a must-have for any serious collector.
The International Star: Luka Dončić
Luka Dončić, the Dallas Mavericks’ dynamic playmaker, has seen 11,100 card-grading requests. The rumor of a shocking trade recently involving Dončić, with his former boss Mark Cuban reportedly trying to halt it, has only added to the intrigue and collectibility of his cards. Dončić’s talent and international appeal have made him a fan favorite, and his cards are highly sought after, particularly those in perfect condition. His presence on this list is a testament to his impact on the game and his enduring popularity among collectors.
The Emerging Talent: Scoot Henderson
Rounding out the top eight is Scoot Henderson, the 21-year-old Portland Trail Blazers point guard with 7,700 card-grading requests. Henderson’s debut in the NBA was marked by his custom signature shoe, a rare honor typically reserved for established stars. Despite missing the All-Star festivities due to an injury, Henderson’s rapid rise and potential to become a perennial star have made his cards a desirable investment. Collectors are keen to acquire Henderson’s cards early, seeing them as a long-term play in the collectibles market.
The Power Forward: Paolo Banchero
Paolo Banchero, the Orlando Magic’s power forward, has received 6,500 card-grading requests. Banchero’s breakout performance, including a career-high 50 points in October, has cemented his status as one of the league’s most promising young talents. He joined a select group of Magic players to achieve this milestone, further enhancing the value of his cards. Banchero’s Rookie of the Year win in 2023 has made him a focal point for collectors, eager to secure cards of a player they believe will have a long and successful career.
The Rising Forward: Amen Thompson
Amen Thompson, the 22-year-old Houston Rockets forward, also has 6,500 card-grading requests, tying with Banchero. Despite not being selected as an NBA All-Star this season, many consider Thompson’s omission to be the biggest oversight of the mid-season festivities. Advanced statistics suggest he has the potential to become a perennial star, and his early performances have not disappointed. Thompson’s cards are highly valued for their future potential, and collectors are already positioning themselves to capitalize on his anticipated rise to stardom.
Conclusion: The Future of NBA Collectibles
The list of the 10 most-collected NBA and WNBA player cards, as compiled by PSA, offers a fascinating glimpse into the current landscape of the collectibles market. These players, from the veteran LeBron James to the rookie Amen Thompson, represent a diverse array of talent and appeal. Their cards are not just pieces of cardboard but investments in the future of basketball and the stories that will be told about these players for generations to come. Whether driven by scarcity, on-court success, or the expectation of long-term value, the cards of these stars are coveted by collectors around the world, making them a dream team for anyone passionate about sports memorabilia. For the latest news and updates, follow Sportico.com and connect with us on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
