NBA cards and basketball trading cards

NBA cards – a collecting tradition since 1933

Basketball cards first appeared in 1933 and have since become some of the most popular sports collectibles in the world. The greatest interest today is in NBA cards – cards of players from the strongest basketball league in the world. Michael Jordan's 1986 rookie card became an icon of the entire hobby, while a unique LeBron James card featuring an autograph and an NBA jersey logo sold for over 5 million dollars. Today, collectors are mainly searching for cards of stars like Luka Dončić, Victor Wembanyama, Stephen Curry, or LeBron James, as well as promising rookies whose value can grow significantly along with their careers.

Topps or Panini: who makes NBA cards

For many years, the NBA licence was held by Panini, who made series such as Prizm, Select, Donruss and Optic famous. From the 2025/26 season, Topps produces officially licensed NBA cards – our range includes Topps Chrome, Finest, NBA Hoops, Motif, Inception and Signature Class. Older Panini basketball cards remain very popular among collectors, and Panini continues with its EuroLeague and college basketball editions (Collegiate Draft Picks).

Which basketball card packaging to choose

• Hobby Pack – a standalone pack, ideal for trying out a new edition.
• Blaster, Value and Mega Box – more affordable boxes with exclusive parallels, great for beginners or as a gift.
• Hobby Box – premium packaging that usually includes guaranteed autographs or memorabilia cards.
• Jumbo Box – more cards in every pack and a higher chance of landing rare pieces.
• Hobby Box Case – an original sealed case containing multiple boxes for demanding collectors and breakers.

You can find an overview by packaging type in the subcategories NBA booster packs and NBA booster boxes.

What to look for in NBA cards

The value of a basketball card is primarily determined by the player, the card type, and its rarity. The most sought-after are rookie cards (marked RC), cards with an autograph and patch cards with a piece of a game-worn jersey. Colour parallels and refractors also play a huge role, as do numbered cards with a limited print run, such as /99, /10 or 'One of One' (1/1), which exists as a single unique copy. For more valuable cards, the condition is also decisive – professional grading is provided by PSA grading.

Single cards, buy-back and accessories

If you are looking for a specific player, check out single basketball cards including autographed cards. We would be happy to buy your NBA cards as part of our card buyback. For safe storage of your collection, we recommend toploaders and card sleeves.

Frequently Asked Questions about NBA cards

What is the difference between a hobby box and a blaster box?

A hobby box is a premium pack designed for collectors and usually guarantees an autograph or memorabilia card. A blaster box is more affordable and contains its own exclusive parallels, but typically does not offer guaranteed hits.

Where to buy NBA cards in Slovakia?

At Card Empire, you will find original NBA cards and basketball cards from both Topps and Panini. In-stock items are dispatched within 24 hours, with free delivery on orders over €200.

Which basketball cards have the highest value?

The highest prices are reached by star rookie cards, autographed cards, patch cards and low-numbered parallels – especially in perfect condition with a PSA 10 grade.

How to store basketball cards?

Place your more valuable cards into a protective sleeve (penny sleeve) and then into a toploader. Store your collection in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures.