Published June 27, 2025 | By Alyx E, Founder of Collectors MD

This week, a new crop of NBA rookies officially entered the league—names like Cooper Flagg, Dylan Harper, and Ace Bailey are already being hyped as the next big thing. Add to that the looming transition of the NBA license from Panini to Fanatics/Topps, and it’s easy to understand why the hobby is buzzing.

People are calling it a “perfect storm”—one last hurrah for licensed Panini NBA products through the end of this year, followed by Topps making its long-awaited return to licensed basketball cards in 2026. The chatter is loud. The speculation is already spiraling. The anticipation is real.

But so is the risk.

This kind of moment is exactly when the hobby gets vulnerable—when excitement becomes exploitation.

Because let’s be honest: Oversaturation, overhype, and overconsumption have never once led to long-term health in any industry. They erode value. They blur intention. They chip away at trust and sustainability.

And while collectors are already getting emotionally and financially invested in what’s to come, manufacturers, shops, and breakers will be doing everything they can to capitalize. Expect a flood of product. Expect relentless FOMO-driven marketing. Expect “can’t-miss” pre-orders and “must-have” rookie chases that will have people burning through their budgets before the ball even tips off.

So what can we do?

We stay grounded. We stay mindful. And we ask ourselves hard questions before getting swept up in the hype.

Am I chasing this card—or the feeling that comes with it?
Is this purchase aligned with my goals—or am I just trying not to miss out?
Will this product hold value in 6 months—or is it just hot right now?

The hobby is changing—fast. And moments like these don’t just shape collections—they shape culture. So let’s be cautious. Let’s be smart. Let’s be intentional.

Because excitement is fine—but exploitation isn’t. And nobody else is going to pump the brakes for us.

#CollectorsMD
Let’s collect with clarity before we drown in the noise.

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