2023 has been an exciting year for the sports card industry, with card-grading companies PSA and ISA continuing to dominate. PSA recently unveiled the top 10 athletes and cards based on submissions for the year, showcasing the most sought-after cards in the market.
Leading the list is none other than Shohei Ohtani, the MLB superstar who recently signed a record-breaking $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Ohtani’s popularity extends to the trading card world, as his cards, particularly his 2018 Topps #700 Pitching card, have become highly coveted among collectors. It comes as no surprise that Ohtani has become the most submitted athlete to PSA this year. In fact, he holds four spots in the top 10 most graded sports cards of 2023.
While Ohtani steals the spotlight, legendary basketball player Michael Jordan remains a prominent figure in card submissions. Jordan’s 1990 Fleer card continues to be a favorite among collectors, solidifying his status as a timeless icon. Joining Ohtani and Jordan in the top 10 athletes for card submissions in 2023 are Julio Rodriguez, Trevor Lawrence, Joe Burrow, Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Ken Griffey Jr., and Patrick Mahomes II.
The most graded sports cards of 2023 also feature several cards from Ohtani, including the 2018 Bowman #49 and the 2018 Topps Update US285. However, other noteworthy cards make the list, such as the 2022 Bowman Chrome Prospects BCP50 Elly De La Cruz and the 1989 Upper Deck #1 Ken Griffey Jr. Star Rookie. These cards showcase the continued interest and demand for iconic players and rising stars.
In the world of football card submissions, two quarterbacks are gaining significant momentum. Justin Fields, the talented player for the Chicago Bears, has seen a remarkable 119% increase in card submissions compared to the previous year. Following closely behind is Trevor Lawrence, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ quarterback, with a 98% increase. Both Fields and Lawrence have captivated fans and collectors with their performances on the field, leading to a surge in interest in their trading cards. Additionally, Kansas City Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce has witnessed notable growth in submissions, which could be influenced by his public relationship with the music sensation Taylor Swift.
Rookie cards continue to dominate grading submissions across various sports. In basketball, Paolo Banchero and Victor Wembanyama stand out as the top rookie card submissions for 2023. These rising stars have captured the attention of collectors with their impressive skills and potential. Meanwhile, in football, Kenny Pickett and Brock Purdy lead the way for rookie card submissions, showcasing the excitement surrounding the next generation of NFL talent. In baseball, Elly De La Cruz and Adley Rutschman emerge as the most submitted rookie cards, reflecting the anticipation of fans for these young players’ careers.
In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani reigns supreme as the most graded athlete in 2023, with his cards generating immense interest and demand. However, the sports card industry continues to showcase the influence of legends like Michael Jordan and the emergence of new stars like Justin Fields and Trevor Lawrence. With rookie cards driving submissions across sports, collectors and fans eagerly await the next big card to hit the market, creating a thriving and dynamic community of enthusiasts.