What’s New
Panini, in collaboration with the WNBA Players’ Association, has announced an extension of their exclusive trading card partnership for multiple years. Since 2019, Panini has been creating WNBA cards in well-known lines like Donruss, Prizm, and Select, along with high-end products such as Flawless and National Treasures. This new agreement, facilitated by OneTeam Partners, is touted by Panini as the most lucrative licensing deal for female athletes. Financial specifics were not revealed.
Panini will continue as the sole manufacturer of WNBA trading cards and will persist in offering digital collectibles, including Panini Instant. The company intends to increase its investments in player marketing, product innovation, autograph agreements, and event sponsorships, such as the WNBPA Rookie Premiere.
The WNBA has seen a rise in popularity due to stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Las Vegas Aces, led by MVP A’ja Wilson, recently clinched the league championship. Panini has already released the 2025 Donruss WNBA set, with Panini Prizm WNBA and the first Panini Impeccable WNBA on the horizon. Additional releases are expected but have not yet been announced.
Configuration at a Glance
- Panini continues as the exclusive producer of WNBA trading cards.
- Recent and forthcoming releases include Donruss WNBA (2025), Panini Prizm WNBA, and the inaugural Panini Impeccable WNBA.
- High-end lines such as Flawless and National Treasures have featured WNBA content in recent years.
- Digital products are ongoing through Panini Instant and other online channels.
- Earlier this year, Rookie Royalty boxes included high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
Key Inserts & Parallels
- Panini Prizm WNBA: Known for color parallels and rookie cards, including the 2024 Caitlin Clark RC.
- Donruss WNBA: Features Rated Rookies and a variety of insert sets.
- Rookie Royalty: Offers high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for top rookies.
- High-end lines (Flawless, National Treasures): Typically include low-numbered parallels and premium inserts.
Autographs & Relics
- Expanded autograph agreements for WNBA players as part of the renewed partnership.
- Rookie Royalty boxes introduced high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Flawless and National Treasures sets feature premium autograph and memorabilia content.
- Future products are anticipated to include autographs and memorabilia from both rookies and established stars.
Collector Notes
- Panini holds exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards and digital collectibles.
- The 2025 Donruss WNBA is already released; Prizm and Impeccable WNBA are upcoming.
- Rookie Royalty boxes introduced the first high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Panini continues to invest in product innovation, player marketing, and autograph agreements.
- No print runs, odds, or specific serial numbering were disclosed in the announcement.
- Designs vary by product line, with Prizm known for parallels and Donruss for Rated Rookies.
- More WNBA releases are anticipated but not yet announced.
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