In the whirlwind world of sports collectibles, few brands stir the pot quite like Topps. This season, they’ve outdone themselves with the freshly released 2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball set. Market watchers and collectors alike are basking in the glow of this latest offering—much like a dedicated fan savoring every frame of a Steph Curry three-pointer. Just barely a week in, and this collection is proving to be more of a slam dunk than a jump ball.
The star of this cardboard show? The electrifying “Let’s Go” Super Short Prints (SSPs), which have sent collectors on a nostalgic trip back to the ’90s. These inserts, dripping in vibrant, eye-popping colors, are not just attracting attention—they’re commanding top dollar. A Curry “Let’s Go” insert recently topped at $200 on eBay, with LeBron’s version not lagging far behind at around $130. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Victor Wembanyama (Wemby) insert made an impressive splash, fetching $120 even before the dust of release week had settled.
But the allure of the Topps Chrome set doesn’t rest on vintage vibes alone. For those with a penchant for autographed mementos, this set is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. LeBron James autographs have thus far been as elusive as a celebrity at a paparazzi-laden gala, with only two known transactions—both landing at the eye-popping price of $2,500 before negotiations. Then there’s Wembanyama, already a force in the making, whose gold autograph out of ten commanded close to $800. Meanwhile, rising stars and rookies like Bronny James Jr. and Alexandre Sarr aren’t just filling slots; Bronny’s autograph going for $145 and Sarr’s for $110 suggests that this roster of signatures is an amalgamation of seasoned athleticism and burgeoning talent.
And let’s toss a nod to the crown jewel of chase cards—the Superfractors. Like the golden snitch of the sports card world, these one-of-a-kind treasures set collectors on a relentless quest. Though many have yet to surface, Trae Young’s 1-of-1 recently did appear, and its auction path ended at a cool $172. It feels like a lucky break at that price, as the Superfractor’s market continues to brim with potential. With more collectors joining the chase, the journey for these cards is just beginning.
While Topps has definitely brought the bling with its rare inserts and autographs, it hasn’t forgotten the budget-conscious enthusiast. The hobby boxes themselves, a key entry point for many collectors, hover at a relatively wallet-friendly range of $150 to $200. This pricing structure thoughtfully balances accessibility for the casual weekend collector with the thrill of the chase for serious aficionados.
In the grand tapestry of collectible releases, the Bottom line promises that the 2024-25 Topps Chrome Basketball set is standing out with the luster of a well-polished trophy. Boasting vibrant designs, an impressive roster of autographs, and an exciting chase for rare gems, this set is already proving to be more than just an early-season contender. It’s positioned to be a headline act for those who revel in the color and spectacle of collecting.
As collectors peel back the packs and uncover the treasures within, the market’s early enthusiasm suggests that this collection’s climb won’t be waning anytime soon. So whether you’re an aficionado of nostalgic inserts or a devotee of emerging talent on cardboard, the Topps Chrome Basketball lineup appears to have hit all the right notes with its overture. As it continues to reside squarely in the collector’s spotlight, one thing is certain: this is a collection Saint Nick himself would likely appreciate sliding under the tree, imbuing the season with a bit of shimmer and a whole lot of hoops magic.
