Caitlin Clark continues to make history, not only on the court but now in the sports memorabilia world as well. Her autographed WNBA rookie card recently sold at auction for a staggering $84,000, setting a new record for the most expensive women’s basketball card ever sold.
The one-of-a-kind Panini Instant “Blue Viper” rookie card features Clark holding up her Indiana Fever jersey on stage at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, moments after she was selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. The card, which was authenticated by Panini America, attracted 79 bids before closing at $84K.
This sale surpassed the previous record for a women’s basketball card, which was set earlier this year when an autographed 2022 Bowman University Caitlin Clark Superfractor sold for $78,000. Clark’s collectibles have become hot commodities, driven by her remarkable rookie season and the demand for memorabilia showcasing her achievements.
The Rising Value of Women’s Sports Cards
Caitlin Clark’s rookie card is now the second most valuable women’s sports card ever sold, only trailing a 2003 NetPro Serena Williams autographed patch card, which sold for an eye-watering $266,400 in 2022. The rapid rise in the value of women’s sports cards highlights the growing recognition of female athletes in the collectibles market.
WNBA NEWS & RUMORS: Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever Updates
This record-breaking sale could soon be topped. Goldin Auctions is currently offering another set of WNBA draft night cards featuring both Clark and fellow rookie Angel Reese. The cards graded a perfect 10 in mint condition, are expected to fetch a similarly high price.
Clark’s Record-Breaking Rookie Season Drives Demand
Clark’s rookie season in the WNBA has been nothing short of spectacular, earning her multiple Rookie of the Month honors and setting numerous league records.
In September, she averaged 22.5 points, 9.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds per game, cementing her status as one of the league’s most exciting players. Her latest feat on the court came when she broke the WNBA rookie scoring record, finishing the season with 769 points. She also shattered the league’s single-season assists record with 337 assists.
WNBA NEWS & RUMORS: Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever Updates
With such incredible achievements, it’s no surprise that Clark’s collectibles have skyrocketed in value. Her autographed Wilson basketballs recently sold out in under an hour, and with Panini’s upcoming release of its first full set of 2024 WNBA trading cards on Oct. 16, collectors are eager to get their hands on more Clark memorabilia.
As Clark prepares for the Indiana Fever’s first-round playoff matchup against the Connecticut Sun, her stock, both as a player and in the sports card market, continues to soar.
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