What’s New
Panini and the WNBA Players’ Association have confirmed a multi-year extension of their exclusive trading card partnership. Since 2019, Panini has been crafting WNBA cards in well-known series such as Donruss, Prizm, and Select, alongside premium products like Flawless and National Treasures. The new agreement, arranged by OneTeam Partners, is hailed by Panini as the most profitable licensing deal for female athletes. Financial specifics were not shared.
Panini will continue as the sole manufacturer of WNBA trading cards and will keep offering digital collectibles, including Panini Instant. The company aims to boost investments in player marketing, product innovation, autograph agreements, and event sponsorships, such as the WNBPA Rookie Premiere.
The WNBA has gained traction, thanks to stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Las Vegas Aces, guided by MVP A’ja Wilson, recently clinched the league championship. Panini has already launched the 2025 Donruss WNBA set, with Panini Prizm WNBA and the debut of Panini Impeccable WNBA on the horizon. More releases are expected but not yet disclosed.
Configuration at a Glance
- Panini retains exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards.
- Recent and forthcoming releases include Donruss WNBA (2025), Panini Prizm WNBA, and the inaugural Panini Impeccable WNBA.
- High-end series like Flawless and National Treasures have featured WNBA content in recent years.
- Digital offerings continue through Panini Instant and other online platforms.
- Earlier this year, Rookie Royalty boxes showcased high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Key Inserts & Parallels
- Panini Prizm WNBA: Renowned for color parallels and rookie cards, including the 2024 Caitlin Clark RC.
- Donruss WNBA: Features Rated Rookies and various insert sets.
- Rookie Royalty: Offers high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for top rookies.
- High-end lines (Flawless, National Treasures): Generally provide low-numbered parallels and premium inserts.
Autographs & Relics
- Expanded autograph deals for WNBA players as part of the renewed agreement.
- Rookie Royalty boxes introduced high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Flawless and National Treasures sets have included premium autograph and memorabilia content.
- Future products expected to feature autographs and memorabilia from both rookies and established stars.
Collector Notes
- Panini retains exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards and digital collectibles.
- 2025 Donruss WNBA is already available; Prizm and Impeccable WNBA are upcoming.
- Rookie Royalty boxes marked the first high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Panini continues to invest in product innovation, player marketing, and autograph deals.
- No print runs, odds, or specific serial numbering were disclosed in the announcement.
- Designs differ by product line, with Prizm known for parallels and Donruss for Rated Rookies.
- Additional WNBA releases are anticipated but not yet announced.
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