What’s New
Panini has announced the continuation of its exclusive partnership with the WNBA Players’ Association, extending their trading card deal for several more years. Since 2019, Panini has been producing WNBA cards under popular lines like Donruss, Prizm, and Select, along with premium offerings such as Flawless and National Treasures. This renewed agreement, facilitated by OneTeam Partners, is touted by Panini as their most profitable licensing deal for women athletes. Financial specifics remain undisclosed.
As the exclusive producer of WNBA trading cards, Panini will continue to offer digital collectibles, including Panini Instant. The company is set to enhance investments in player marketing, innovation in products, autograph deals, and event sponsorships like the WNBPA Rookie Premiere.
Interest in the WNBA has grown, driven by stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Las Vegas Aces, with MVP A’ja Wilson, recently claimed the league championship. The 2025 Donruss WNBA set is already out, with Panini Prizm WNBA and the inaugural Panini Impeccable WNBA on the horizon. More releases are expected but have yet to be announced.
Configuration at a Glance
- Panini continues as the sole producer of WNBA trading cards.
- Recent and forthcoming releases include Donruss WNBA (2025), Panini Prizm WNBA, and the first Panini Impeccable WNBA.
- High-end collections like Flawless and National Treasures have featured WNBA content in recent years.
- Digital offerings remain available through Panini Instant and other platforms.
- Earlier this year, Rookie Royalty boxes introduced high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Key Inserts & Parallels
- Panini Prizm WNBA: Known for its 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): Typically provide low-numbered parallels and premium inserts.
Autographs & Relics
- Expanded autograph agreements for WNBA players as part of the renewed partnership.
- Rookie Royalty boxes showcased high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Flawless and National Treasures collections have included premium autograph and memorabilia content.
- Future products are expected to feature autographs and memorabilia from both emerging rookies and established stars.
Collector Notes
- Panini maintains exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards and digital collectibles.
- The 2025 Donruss WNBA is already available; Prizm and Impeccable WNBA are forthcoming.
- 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 noted for parallels and Donruss for Rated Rookies.
- Additional WNBA releases are anticipated but have yet to be announced.
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