Best Players to Snag
As we bid farewell to the first month of 2024, it’s time to step outside and feel the temperature, both literally and in the world of collectibles, to see which athletes’ trading cards are poised to scorch the market this year. In recent years, standout athletes like Julio Rodríguez and Victor Wembanyama have ignited a trading card frenzy, commanding hefty prices due to their soaring popularity. So, as we welcome the year of the Dragon, we’ve compiled a list of athletes who could very well dominate the trading card game in 2024.
Top Players to Collect
Victor Wembanyama
Wemby’s one of the hottest names on the pro hoops scene right now, and his career just kicked off in 2023. Now, that’s no surprise for a once-in-a-generation talent whose hype gives LeBron James a run for his money, but it’s still jarring to witness. He’s exceeded expectations and signed his name next to several league milestones despite opponents trying to put him on the wrong end of a “Welcome to an NBA” moment nightly. To put it simply. Wembanyama’s cards are on fire and the heat won’t be simmering down anytime soon, especially his first Bowman and RCs from 2023. With his rookie success, brace yourself because his market value will only soar.
Max Verstappen
At 18 years and 228 days, Verstappen became the youngest driver ever to clinch a Formula One Grand Prix, achieving this feat at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix. Fast-forward seven years, and the son of former F1 driver Jos Verstappen was still bending corners at breakneck speed and shattering records. In 2023, he set the mark for most wins in a single season, tallying 19, showcasing his absolute dominance in the sport. As his legendary career continues to unfold, you can bet your bottom dollar that his cards stock will only keep rising.
Lionel Messi
Messi is a literal G.O.A.T. in his sport, and that more than surpasses the requirements for this list. It’s always a good year to collect Messi, and this year is no different, with him being featured throughout UCC and MLS products.
Shohei Ohtani
When Ohtani relocated from Orange County to Los Angeles County, signing with the Dodgers in December 2023, Topps seized the opportunity to release his first card with the team, the 2023 MLB TOPPS NOW® #OS-21 Shohei Ohtani. And the result? A jaw-dropping 107,541 copies flying off the virtual shelves within just 24 hours of its release on Topps’ website. Needless to say, Ohtani’s very popular and one of the biggest names in sports today. Whether it’s his Angels cards or his Dodgers cards, it’s a wise move to get cop anything Ohtani-related. His name rings bells across continents.
Paul Skenes
Skenes reached the trading card mountaintop in late 2023, landing the coveted 1st Bowman distinction when Bowman Draft Prospects hit the scenes. Why collect this LSU standout? Well, it’s as clear as day – he’s the numero uno pick of the 2023 MLB Draft, and the buzz is all about his Hall of Fame potential. There’s nothing wrong with taking a chance on greatness. Skenes could be legendary.
