Sports card collectors are well known for their love for basketball trading cards. All age groups, ranging from kids to adults, open packs excitedly, hoping for a unique piece to turn up in the pack they purchased. The sheer excitement that collectors have, be they kids or adults, is unrivaled. With multiple versions of cards available, certain cards tend to be way more expensive than others based on rarity and the context of release.
LeBron James is one of the few glorified athletes whose cards are sought heavily for their expensive price tags, which only seem to go up as time passes by. We take a look at some of the most expensive LeBron James trading cards, as the star recently made significant moves in the trading card industry.
Which is the most expensive LeBron James trading card?
One of the greatest athletes of our generation and, without a doubt, one of the best basketball players of all time, Lebron James is not just a player but a role model for millions around the world. Taking a look at these historic cards, the price tags seem quite justified.
With multiple rookie cards, the card sold for the lowest value is LeBron’s 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Rookie Patch, Serial Number: 04/99, which has been graded as BGS 9 MINT, and the sale was made for 528,000 USD. Life-changing money for a trading card.
While that was the lowest reported sale, various other cards in similar series went for upwards of a million USD. According to sources, the most expensive Lebron James trading card is the 2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Rookie Patch, which carries a serial number of 7/23 and has a stellar grade of BGS MT 9.
The card was sold for a whopping 5.2 million USD. The most valuable basketball card ever. Insane.
LeBron James leaves Upper Deck for Fanatics
In a massive business deal, Lakers superstar Lebron James has decided to take up a new trading card sponsorship after 20 long years.
The superstar athlete, who signed with card trading company Upper Deck in 2003 while still in high school, has decided to take his presence to Fanatics Collectibles, a company worth 31 billion USD in 2022.
The King’s latest venture will see him make about 5 million USD per year in revenue. Speaking to CNBC about his move to Fanatics, James said, “As someone who appreciates all the moments—big and small—along the journey, I’m excited to share more with my fans through this partnership with Fanatics.”
In a video shared on social media, James added, “We all start somewhere. First court. First swing. First down. An upset. A game-winner. A moment that changes everything. Every origin story has a first and they all start here.”
James has also brought along his son, Bronny James Jr., in this business deal as he continues to elevate his son and create opportunities for Bronny’s growth. In the video shared, James is featured alongside young college athletes such as Caleb Williams and Caitlin Clark. Also making an appearance is one of the greatest prospects in the NBA: No. 1 draft pick, Victor Wembenyama.
What are your thoughts on the King’s latest business venture? Are you excited to see him team up with his son, Bronny? We are excited to know your thoughts on the news, so feel free to comment below.
