👽 All Aboard the Wembanyama Express: Updates On Year Two Phenom

🏀 The Human Pogo Stick

Victor Wembanyama's sophomore NBA season was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks, and 3.7 assists per game , he solidified his reputation as a generational talent. However, his season was abruptly halted due to a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder, sidelining him for the remainder of the 2024–25 season.

🩼 Injury Derailment

Despite this setback, the trading card market's response has been multifaceted. High-end Wembanyama cards have continued to command impressive prices, with a 2023–24 Panini Prizm Nebula Choice 1/1 rookie card selling for a record $860,100 in February 2025 . This sale underscores collectors' confidence in his long-term potential.​

📈📉 Trends

Conversely, more common cards have experienced a dip in value. For instance, the 2023 Prizm Silver PSA 10, which previously fetched around $850, has seen prices drop to approximately $700 or less . This decline reflects short-term concerns about his health and availability.​

🔍 Brand Recognition

The trading card landscape is also influenced by the ongoing transition from Panini to Fanatics as the NBA's licensed card producer. Wembanyama's exclusive autograph deal with Fanatics has resulted in a scarcity of his autographed cards in current Panini products, creating a void in the high-end market .​

🧠 Final Thoughts

In summary, while Wembanyama's injury has introduced some volatility into the trading card market, his exceptional talent and the anticipation of his return continue to drive interest and investment in his cards. Collectors remain optimistic about his future, making his cards a compelling asset for both short-term enthusiasts and long-term investors.​