Breanna Stewart, a three-time WNBA champion and Olympic gold medalist, is a leading figure in the expanding market for WNBA trading cards. Her Panini America trading cards, which even feature in her daughter Ruby’s pretend grocery store, symbolize the increasing interest in women’s basketball collectibles. The growing demand for Breanna Stewart WNBA trading cards highlights the sport’s rising visibility and fan engagement.
Stewart reflected on her personal experience with trading cards, recalling her first card during her time at UConn and the excitement of seeing her image evolve through annual Panini releases. This progression not only celebrates her career but connects fans to the broader story of women’s basketball.
How Panini America Drives Growth in WNBA Trading Cards
Panini America acquired the license to produce WNBA trading cards in 2019, and since then, the market has witnessed exponential growth. Jason Howarth, Panini America’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations, noted a significant surge last year fueled by a notable rookie class. New stars like Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark, Camilla Kardoso, and Cameron Brink brought fresh attention to WNBA collectibles, driven by their strong collegiate followings.
Adding to this momentum, rookie Paige Bueckers has also played a vital role in expanding the market. Howarth praised the impact of this latest class, describing it as “phenomenal” for attracting new fans and collectors.
Paige Bueckers’ Personal Journey into Trading Card Fame
Paige Bueckers’ affection for trading cards began in her childhood, when she often asked her father to buy baseball cards during store visits. Her collection, once stored in binders with clear holders, included cards of popular athletes like LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. Reflecting on her transition from collector to card subject, Bueckers described it as a “full circle moment” and expressed gratitude for her journey.
Her involvement with Panini began last fall through a name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreement before UConn’s national championship win. A key condition of Bueckers’ deal was that her teammates would benefit as well, leading to the first-ever UConn basketball trading card set earlier this year.
Expanding Product Lines Signal Continued WNBA Card Market Growth
The enthusiastic acceptance of WNBA trading cards is expected to accelerate with Panini’s upcoming launch of its first WNBA DonRuss basketball product, scheduled within the next month or so. This new offering will feature established stars and players from the current rookie class, including Paige Bueckers. Howarth described this release as “massive” and anticipates a strong market response.
The increasing stature of WNBA cards is evident in record-breaking sales at recent auctions. At the Fanatics Collect July Premier Auction, Caitlin Clark’s 2024 Panini Flawless WNBA Platinum Rookie Logowoman Patch Auto card sold for $660,000, setting a new benchmark as the most expensive women’s sports card ever sold.
New Generation of Players Redefines Trading Card Popularity
The rise of younger players like Stewart and Clark has transformed the trading card landscape. PSA President Ryan Hoge noted that the most sought-after WNBA cards feature athletes who joined the league after closer collaborations between manufacturers and the WNBA began. This shift has brought renewed enthusiasm and investment from companies like Panini.
Jason Howarth emphasized that Panini plans to continue expanding its WNBA product portfolio.
“We’ve got a whole slew of W products that are coming out,”
he said.
“We’re excited to get that product into the hands of the consumers and continuing to grow the W category.”
The Future of WNBA Trading Cards Looks Promising
The collaboration between players like Breanna Stewart and Paige Bueckers and companies such as Panini is helping to elevate the WNBA trading card market to new heights. By energizing longtime collectors and attracting new fans, these efforts are strengthening the connection between players and supporters. As more products launch and trading card values rise, the WNBA’s presence in the sports collectibles arena is poised for sustained growth that mirrors the league’s on-court success and increasing popularity.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Breanna Stewart deaf?
A. ESPN conducted an interview with Breanna Stewart, highlighting a memorable incident involving a deaf WNBA star and a camera.
Q. Is Breanna Stewart a millionaire?
A. Breanna Stewart’s net worth is about $5 million, placing her among the top-earning women in basketball. She earns roughly $115,000 each year playing for the Seattle Storm. Additional income comes from brand partnerships with companies such as Nike and Microsoft.
Q. What surgery did Breanna Stewart have?
A. NEW YORK (AP) — Breanna Stewart went through a minor surgical procedure on her right knee’s meniscus, according to someone with knowledge of the operation. This individual requested not to be named because they did not have permission to discuss it openly.