Jalen Green is taking his talents to Panini…and Upper Deck. The NBA G League standout has signed a trading card and autograph deal with Panini America, ensuring that one of next sason’s projected top rookies doesn’t slip away from the league’s licensed trading card producer.
Green’s cards and autographs will be in some of Panini’s 2021-22 basketball card releases that will arrive later this year.
“Jalen is the kind of exciting, offensively gifted young player that fans and collectors alike clamor for and we’re excited to partner with him for such a meaningful relationship,” said Panini America CEO Mark Warsop. “He will absolutely be a key figure in our products not just during his rookie season, but for years to come. He’s a bright part of our future and the future of licensed trading cards.”
The 19-year-old Green also inked a deal last spring with Upper Deck for autographed memorabilia. This week, they showed off some of the pieces in production that will feature the player who was considered the top-ranked shooting guard coming out of high school.
At the moment, the only products in Upper Deck’s online store were signed basketballs, selling for $299.99 and $399.99.
Green turned down a college scholarship to sign with the NBA’s developmental league where he averaged nearly 18 points, over four rebounds and nearly three assists per game in 2020-21.
Even without a college background, Panini says he’ll be featured throughout the company’s “line of collegiate and NBA trading card products.” His first Panini America rookie card will be offered on the company’s Instant platform minutes after his name is called in the NBA Draft on Thursday, July 29.
“This is such an exciting time in my life and I’m thankful that Panini America is on this journey with me,” Green said. “As a kid collecting trading cards, knowing that I’ll have my own soon is exciting.”