Topps has announced the launch of its inaugural NBA Definitive Basketball collection, bringing the company's long‑standing trading‑card expertise to the professional basketball market for the first time. The set follows the company's successful runs in football, baseball and soccer, and is positioned as a flagship offering for the 2025‑26 season.
Collectors can expect three distinct autograph tiers — Legends, Veterans and Rookies — each featuring hard‑signed cards and game‑used memorabilia from NBA players. The roster blends established stars with emerging talent, creating a narrative that bridges past and present.
First Day Issue Auction and Pre‑Order Details
A Dutch auction titled First Day Issue will take place on August 13, 2026, on Topps.com, offering a limited selection of specially treated cards. Following the auction, a traditional pre‑order window will open, giving fans the chance to secure boxes before they hit the secondary market.
The collection also includes a Definitive Moments checklist that pairs active and retired players in themed dual and triple autograph configurations. Rookie Patch Autographs highlight the 2025‑26 rookie class with game‑used jersey swatches, while low‑numbered parallels add rarity through prime patches and inscribed signatures.
Nameplate cards feature embedded letters from players' on‑court nameplates, such as Victor Wembanyama’s full name, adding a personal touch to the set. Additionally, Definable Relic Autos combine game‑used memorabilia with hard‑signed autographs, giving veterans a unique avenue to participate.
Availability and Retail Partnerships
While the exact count of cards per pack, packs per box and boxes per case remains under wraps, hobby boxes are slated for release on major e‑commerce platforms, including eBay and Amazon. To protect collections, protective supplies will be sold through Amazon, Target and Fanatics, ensuring that enthusiasts can preserve their acquisitions in top condition.