The 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set has caused a stir in the collecting community, heralding the triumphant return of a classic brand last seen in 2009. Once a beloved favorite during the rookie seasons of basketball legends Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson, Topps Chrome Basketball now makes a grand comeback, offering a blend of contemporary stars, up-and-coming rookies, and iconic players, all showcased in a set authorized by the NBA Players Association.
While the release is not NBA-official due to Panini’s exclusive rights, the set manages to capture the thrill of the sport admirably. While players are portrayed without complete pro uniforms and team logos, the cards retain the exceptional quality and allure that Topps Chrome is renowned for.
Dive into the highlights of the 2023-24 set, brimming with nearly 30 distinctive Refractor variations that provide collectors with a diverse selection of vivid and visually appealing cards. From Geometric versions in breaker boxes to basketball background parallels in retail packs, these Refractors add an element of excitement to the collection.
Autographs steal the spotlight in this release, featuring Topps Chrome Autographs, Certified Rookie Autographs, and retail-exclusive Certified Autographs. Noteworthy inclusions are on-card signatures from Victor Wembanyama, the 2023-24 Rookie of the Year, who has an exclusive autograph deal with Fanatics this year. With no autographs in Panini’s products, Wembanyama’s Topps Chrome cards have become highly coveted by collectors.
Fans can also relish in the appearance of LeBron James, whose autographs grace this set, marking only his second signing post his exclusive deal with Fanatics. Additionally, NBA legends like Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal add a touch of nostalgia and grandeur to this already impressive collection.
Expect a plethora of vibrant inserts in each hobby pack, including Coast to Coast, Destiny, Finesse, Season’s Best, and Youthquake. These inserts boast eye-catching colors and designs, elevating the visual appeal of the cards. The set also features several Short Print inserts like Exposé, Superfly, Let’s Go!, Helix, Radiating Rookies, and Rock Stars, paying tribute to a classic Topps insert from the 1990s.
Product details for the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set include 8 cards per hobby pack, 12 packs per box, 12 boxes per case, and a total set size of 190 cards. The anticipated release date is August 28, 2024, with each hobby box set to contain two autographs, in addition to a selection of inserts and Refractors.
Market response to the release has been overwhelmingly positive, with pre-sales for boxes and cases selling out quickly. Leveraging Wembanyama’s rising popularity, Topps aims to reintroduce the Chrome Basketball brand successfully, making this set a must-have for collectors. As Topps looks ahead to regaining full NBA licensing in 2025, the 2023-24 Topps Chrome Basketball set serves as a vital step in re-establishing the brand’s presence in the basketball card market, leaving collectors eagerly awaiting the brand’s future endeavors.