Once a cult favorite in tobacco shops during the 90s, NBA trading cards are experiencing a resurgence in popularity today. While they may no longer sit alongside candy and cigarettes, the world of collecting is thriving, fueled by an explosion of specialized platforms. Among these, Whatnot, a US-based partner, is making collecting more accessible with live sales facilitated by enthusiasts, where buyers can purchase, engage, learn, or simply watch.
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There are countless reasons to collect: pleasure, passion, and sometimes investment. However, one thing is certain: anyone can dive in today with just a smartphone and a bit of curiosity.
But how does one start a collection when re-entering this hobby?
Why Collect?
This is the first question to ask before buying your first card. There’s no need for an elaborate financial strategy; it’s primarily about enjoyment. This reflection can help you avoid aimless spending and keep you motivated. It’ll also save your bank account from impulsive decisions. If your answer lacks a sense of desire and enjoyment, it might not be the right time to start.
Begin by considering what attracts you most: do you want to collect cards of your favorite player, track rookies from a particular draft class, or revisit legends from your childhood? Are you looking for a personal project to cherish for life or a collection to eventually sell for profit?
Once clarified, you can give your collection a coherent direction from the start. Avoiding disorganization helps prevent unnecessary expenses and frustrations. Here are some potential collection ideas:
- Focus on a specific player
- Concentrate on a franchise
- Maintain a visual and budget identity by sticking to a certain card range – Prizm, Hoop, Donruss, etc.
- Aim only for inserts (special design cards often considered more original and stylish)
- Focus solely on rookie cards, which are often more sought after – this can be a challenging but rewarding pursuit.
- Take on a personal challenge, such as collecting a signed card from every MVP in history – a long but exciting quest.
The options are plentiful. Regardless of your chosen angle, providing a guiding theme to your collection makes each card more meaningful. A well-directed collection from the start multiplies your enjoyment with every new addition.
A beautiful selection of rookie cards featuring Latrell Sprewell.
Essential Knowledge for New Collectors
You don’t need a fancy education to start your collection, but knowing some key concepts will help you navigate the world of NBA cards more comfortably.
Types of Cards
There are several types of cards to be aware of. “Base cards” are the most common, serving as the foundation for each series. “Rookie cards” are the first official cards of a player in the NBA – highly coveted and often expensive, particularly if the player goes on to have a successful career. “Inserts” offer unique visuals and special themes. At the high end, you’ll find parallels (rare variations), autographs (signed cards), and patches containing actual jersey pieces.
Publishers
Since 2009, Panini has held exclusive rights to produce NBA cards. Its most famous lines include Prizm, Donruss, Select, Hoops, and the premium National Treasures series.
In an exciting development, Topps will officially regain the NBA license for the 2025-26 season. This marks a historic turn for collectors, as Topps issued its first NBA cards back in 1957.
How and Where to Buy Your First Cards
Traditional Options
You can certainly explore familiar resale platforms. While there’s a vast variety, quality can vary widely, and sometimes you’ll need to play detective to ensure the condition of the card. Additionally, be cautious of scams and unscrupulous sellers. Specialized stores (both online and physical) can provide reassurance, though they often come with a higher price tag.
New-Generation Solution: Whatnot
For beginners, Whatnot is a great platform to launch your collection confidently. It’s a live shopping platform very popular in the US and now available in France. The concept involves live video sales hosted by enthusiasts, where you can view cards in real-time, ask questions, and enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
Why is this ideal for newcomers?
- You can see what you’re buying, with all details visible live.
- You can interact with sellers before bidding.
- You’ll discover cards you hadn’t previously considered.
- You can learn by watching without the pressure to buy.
Most importantly, you can simply watch without spending a dime. Observing sales, prices, and reactions proves educational and helps you get acquainted with the NBA card hobby. The unique aspect of Whatnot is the live shopping dynamic and real-time interactions. Buying isn’t the sole purpose for being there; the experience is much more comprehensive: each collector can inquire, engage with fellow enthusiasts, and participate in live “breaks.”
Mind the Budget
The temptation to overspend can be overwhelming when starting. With so many cards available, it’s easy to get excited. However, it’s crucial not to exhaust your budget on impulse buys. Enjoyment can still be found without breaking the bank.
Establish a straightforward and reasonable budget from the outset – for example, €50 per month. It’s better to invest in a few targeted cards than to splurge on a random pack. While unboxing can be thrilling, it can also lead to disappointment if you’re unclear about what you’re seeking.
Some sales start at €1, allowing you to participate stress-free. You might also create a clear wishlist to stay focused on your priorities and resist the temptation to splurge. This forms a solid foundation for sticking to your budget. Bonus: Alex has made a perfect video on this topic, providing an excellent starting point for learning how to manage your budget while still enjoying the hobby.
The Joy of Searching and Discovery
What makes this hobby so special is the thrill of the hunt. Finding that one card missing from your collection, stumbling across a hidden gem, or tracking a rookie you believe is underrated—all contribute to the excitement.
On Whatnot, you can follow your favorite sellers, receive alerts for specific cards or players, and engage with other collectors. It creates a more vibrant experience than scrolling through impersonal listings. Plus, there’s no obligation to buy; observing sales will allow you to better understand the market and make purchases at the right moment. Whether a seasoned collector or a novice, you’ll always find a community eager to share advice.
Latrell Sprewell’s collection continues to grow!
Properly Protecting and Organizing Your Cards
Once you have your first cards, protecting them is essential. It would be a shame for a damaged corner to ruin a beautiful piece. There are several protection options available, including sleeves (plastic pouches), top loaders (hard cases), or specialized binders. Organize them by player, team, theme, or rarity, based on your preference. Additionally, consider maintaining a simple inventory (an Excel file, an app, or notebook) to keep track of what you have.
Quick Checklist to Get Started
- Choose a theme or player
- Learn the basics (types of cards, brands)
- Watch a few Whatnot live streams to understand prices and the market
- Take time to understand pricing and market
- Set a modest budget
- Purchase one or two targeted cards
- Protect and document your cards
- Join a group or community (Discord, forums, Facebook groups, etc.)
- Follow TrashTalk on YouTube to not miss any videos presented by Alex
You don’t need to master everything to jump into this hobby. The beauty of collecting NBA cards lies in the ability to engage at your own pace, with your own desires, budget, and favorites. In 2025, collecting has never been this lively, interactive, and accessible. While there will always be cards that are more expensive, rarer, or shinier, those elements don’t define a great collection. A great collection is one that you build with passion, card after card, reflecting your personality, and without straining your finances.
If you’d like to explore Whatnot, join a community of enthusiasts, or begin your collection, head over right here!
Meet William, a proud Bethel University alumnus with a fervent passion for lifestyle and culture topics. His keen interest doesn’t stop there; he’s also deeply engrossed in current events of all kinds. William dedicates himself wholeheartedly to this site, thriving on the collaborative energy he shares with Suzanne, his long-standing partner in crime.
Having navigated their university courses side by side for years, their teamwork on the site is nothing short of dynamic. Together, they bring a unique blend of insights, proving that two heads are indeed better than one in delivering compelling content.
