Victor Wembanyama, the 7-foot-4-inch French prodigy, has set the basketball card market ablaze. With collectors eagerly anticipating the release of his cards, the market has been rejuvenated, fueled by a surge in draft products and on-demand printing. The competition between card manufacturing giants has further amplified the excitement surrounding Wembanyama’s highly sought-after collectibles.
Since the initial release of Wembanyama’s cards last spring, eBay alone has witnessed the sale of over 62,000 cards, raking in an astonishing $6.3 million in sales. Notably, eighteen cards have fetched prices exceeding $10,000 each. The past month alone has seen over 27,000 cards sold, totaling more than $2.6 million. It is clear that collectors are rushing to acquire any Wembanyama memorabilia they can get their hands on.
One notable sale includes a Bowman Chrome University Red Refractor redemption card from the 2022-23 season, which commanded an impressive $20,000 in August. Another highlight sale was a PSA 10 Gold Refractor autograph card from 2022 Bowman U, limited to 50 copies, which sold for $15,850.
Wembanyama’s journey over the past two years has been nothing short of meteoric. Drawing comparisons to the likes of LeBron James, he started his professional career in France at the young age of 15. Known for his exceptional shot-blocking, agility, and surprising shooting range for his height, Wembanyama has captured the attention of fans and scouts alike. His skills were on full display during his time with Metropolitans 92 and the G League’s Ignite team, where he scored an impressive 73 points across two games. It was no surprise when he was drafted by the San Antonio Spurs following their lottery win.
Wembanyama’s playing style is a mix of old-school and modern basketball. His dominant interior presence and ability to shoot three-pointers pose a significant challenge for opponents. In addition to his skills on the court, his advanced basketball intellect, game-reading abilities, and decision-making under pressure make him a force to be reckoned with. With records of scoring 35+ points, grabbing 10+ rebounds, and blocking 2+ shots in a game, he is in the company of elite players like Kevin Durant and LeBron James.
While collectors eagerly await the release of Wembanyama’s rookie card featuring him in a Spurs jersey, his collegiate and other unlicensed cards remain in high demand. Some of his top cards include the 2022 Bowman University Inception, which features his autograph as a redemption and is highly prized by collectors. The 2022 Bowman University Chrome offers his first base card and chrome autograph, valued for their “1st Bowman” designation. The more accessible 2022 Bowman University Best provides collectors with Wembanyama’s first live autograph and a base card.
Both Topps Now and Panini Instant have featured Wembanyama in limited-time offers. Topps Now cards capture significant moments in his career, such as his draft day and a pitch at a Yankees game, while Panini Instant showcases him in his Spurs attire. The 2023 Allen & Ginter collection features Wembanyama with base cards, parallels, and autographs, remaining affordable due to their high availability.
The arrival of Victor Wembanyama has injected new life into the basketball card market. Collectors are eagerly pursuing his highly desired cards, driving up sales and creating a collector’s gold rush. As his career continues to unfold, the excitement surrounding Wembanyama’s cards is only expected to grow.
