The beauty of collecting NBA cards is that there is a chance for this hobby to crossover to other forms of collectibles. It can be action figures, designer toys, signed jerseys, or sneakers, among others. But beyond these is another option collectors can definitely grow fond of – Funko's Panini Prizm Pops featuring the hottest NBA stars.
Both Panini and Funko announced that the pre-order window for these fun collectibles has been opened to customers. Its initial set features LeBron James, Luka Doncic, LaMelo Ball, Zion Williamson, Stephen Curry, and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Much like the company's main Pop offerings in the market, these products feature the said players in Funko form. They come in larger boxes that feature the said star's Prizm card from Panini's 2020-21 set. These also come with a 7.5 x 10.5 inch protective case that can be used to hang these collectibles on a wall.
In a statement, Jason Howarth, Panini America's Vice President of Marketing, said that the card company is excited to enter this collaboration with Funko.
“The success of our Panini trading cards in the collectible space along with the success that Funko is experiencing in the vinyl figure collectibles space makes this the ideal collaboration for sports fans and consumers.”
Panini is also planning to release a limited three-figure set that features popular covers from their collaboration with SLAM Magazine. The NBA stars who will be featured in this set are Allen Iverson, Shaquille O'Neal, and Vince Carter.
This collaboration between Panini and Funko was announced last year. With their partnership going to be fully realized soon, collectors from two worlds will now be able to have their favorite players and their cards in one box.