What’s New
Panini has announced a multi-year extension of its exclusive trading card partnership with the WNBA Players’ Association. Since 2019, Panini has been producing WNBA trading cards under well-known lines like Donruss, Prizm, and Select, as well as premium 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, although financial specifics remain undisclosed.
Panini will continue as the sole manufacturer of WNBA trading cards and will keep offering digital collectibles, including Panini Instant. The company plans to enhance investments in player marketing, product development, autograph agreements, and event sponsorships, including the WNBPA Rookie Premiere.
Interest in the WNBA has grown, fueled by stars like Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, and Paige Bueckers. The Las Vegas Aces, led by MVP A’ja Wilson, recently secured the league championship. The 2025 Donruss WNBA set has already been released, with upcoming launches of Panini Prizm WNBA and the inaugural Panini Impeccable WNBA. Additional releases are anticipated but have yet to be announced.
Configuration at a Glance
- Panini continues as the exclusive producer of WNBA trading cards.
- Recent and future releases include Donruss WNBA (2025), Panini Prizm WNBA, and the first Panini Impeccable WNBA.
- High-end lines like Flawless and National Treasures have featured WNBA content in recent years.
- Digital products are ongoing through Panini Instant and other online platforms.
- Earlier this year, Rookie Royalty boxes included 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: Includes high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for top rookies.
- High-end lines (Flawless, National Treasures): Typically include low-numbered parallels and premium inserts.
Autographs & Relics
- Enhanced autograph agreements for WNBA players as part of the renewed deal.
- Rookie Royalty boxes introduced high-end Rookie Patch Autographs for Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.
- Flawless and National Treasures sets have featured premium autograph and memorabilia content.
- Upcoming products are expected to include autographs and memorabilia from both rookies and established stars.
Collector Notes
- Panini retains exclusive rights to produce WNBA trading cards and digital collectibles.
- The 2025 Donruss WNBA is already released; Prizm and Impeccable WNBA are forthcoming.
- Rookie Royalty boxes showcased 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 details on print runs, odds, or specific serial numbering were revealed in the announcement.
- Designs vary by product line, with Prizm noted for parallels and Donruss for Rated Rookies.
- Additional WNBA releases are expected but have yet to be announced.
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