Top Rookie Cards to Invest in for the Future
The world of sports card collecting has seen a resurgence in recent years, with rookie cards leading the charge as prime investments. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, focusing on rookie sports cards can be a great way to build a valuable collection. These cards often represent an athlete’s first official card, and if the player goes on to achieve greatness, the value of their rookie card can skyrocket.
In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the top rookie cards to invest in for the future, across various sports. Whether you're a fan of the NBA, NFL, MLB, or NHL, these young stars have the potential to become the next big thing.
1. Victor Wembanyama (NBA)
The buzz around Victor Wembanyama is unlike anything the basketball world has seen in years. The 7'4" French phenom, drafted first overall by the San Antonio Spurs in the 2023 NBA Draft, has the potential to become one of the greatest players of his generation. His combination of height, agility, and shooting ability makes him a matchup nightmare on both ends of the court.
Why Invest:
Wembanyama’s unique skill set and early dominance in both European and NBA competitions make his rookie cards highly sought after.
His cards are already being compared to some of the biggest names in the hobby, like LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
Card to Watch:
2023-24 Panini Prizm Victor Wembanyama Rookie Card
2. Anthony Richardson (NFL)
Drafted 4th overall by the Indianapolis Colts in the 2023 NFL Draft, Anthony Richardson is one of the most intriguing young quarterbacks in recent memory. Known for his dual-threat ability, Richardson's combination of athleticism and a cannon of an arm has fans and analysts excited about his potential in the NFL.
Why Invest:
As a quarterback, the most valuable position in the NFL, Richardson’s cards could explode in value if he becomes a franchise star.
The Colts are building their offense around him, and he’s already shown flashes of brilliance early in his rookie season.
Card to Watch:
2023 Panini Donruss Anthony Richardson Rated Rookie
3. Elly De La Cruz (MLB)
Elly De La Cruz is a young, dynamic shortstop for the Cincinnati Reds and one of the most exciting prospects in Major League Baseball. His combination of power, speed, and defensive ability has scouts predicting a bright future for this Dominican sensation. He made his MLB debut in 2023 and wasted no time showcasing his star potential.
Why Invest:
De La Cruz is a true five-tool player, which makes his rookie cards a solid investment. If he continues his rapid rise, he could become the face of the Reds' franchise.
His charisma and exciting playing style make him a fan favorite, which often boosts card demand.
Card to Watch:
2023 Bowman Chrome Elly De La Cruz Rookie Card
4. Connor Bedard (NHL)
The NHL has been eagerly awaiting the arrival of Connor Bedard, widely regarded as the most promising hockey prospect since Connor McDavid. Drafted first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2023 NHL Draft, Bedard is a goal-scoring machine with a hockey IQ that is off the charts. He has the potential to dominate the league for years to come.
Why Invest:
Bedard’s skills and ability to impact the game immediately will make his rookie cards highly desirable. If he lives up to the hype, expect his cards to soar in value.
Playing for an iconic franchise like the Blackhawks gives him a huge market and fan base, further increasing the demand for his cards.
Card to Watch:
2023-24 Upper Deck Young Guns Connor Bedard Rookie Card
5. Jackson Holliday (MLB)
As the son of former MLB star Matt Holliday, Jackson Holliday has baseball in his blood. Drafted first overall by the Baltimore Orioles in 2022, Holliday has quickly risen through the ranks, showing elite hitting ability and a high baseball IQ. Many experts believe he could be a cornerstone player for the Orioles.
Why Invest:
Holliday’s pedigree, combined with his exceptional performance in the minor leagues, makes him a top rookie card to watch. If he breaks into the majors and lives up to the hype, his rookie cards could see massive growth in value.
The Orioles are on the rise, and Holliday could become a key piece of their resurgence.
Card to Watch:
2023 Bowman Draft Jackson Holliday Chrome Rookie Card
6. Caleb Williams (NFL)
Caleb Williams is already drawing comparisons to Patrick Mahomes thanks to his incredible playmaking ability and improvisation skills at quarterback. Expected to be the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Williams has been dominant at the University of Southern California (USC), where he won the Heisman Trophy in 2022. NFL scouts believe he could be a generational talent.
Why Invest:
If Williams is drafted by a quarterback-needy team and lives up to the hype, his rookie cards could become some of the most valuable in recent years.
His dynamic play style and leadership qualities position him as a future star of the NFL.
Card to Watch:
2024 Panini Caleb Williams Rookie Card (expected post-NFL Draft)
7. Chet Holmgren (NBA)
After being selected second overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2022 NBA Draft, Chet Holmgren missed his entire rookie season due to injury. However, the towering 7'1" forward/center has fans and collectors excited about his return. Holmgren’s elite shot-blocking, shooting ability, and guard-like skills make him a unique prospect.
Why Invest:
Holmgren’s delayed debut could mean his rookie cards are still undervalued, offering a great buying opportunity before he fully makes his mark in the NBA.
Playing alongside emerging stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Holmgren could become a key piece of a rising Thunder team.
Card to Watch:
2022-23 Panini Prizm Chet Holmgren Rookie Card
Conclusion: Investing in Rookie Cards
Rookie cards remain one of the most exciting and potentially lucrative areas of sports card collecting. These players represent the future of their respective sports, and if they achieve greatness, their rookie cards can appreciate in value tremendously. When considering investing in rookie cards, keep an eye on players’ performances, market trends, and card grading conditions.
By investing in the right players at the right time, you could build a collection that not only brings joy but also holds significant future value. Happy collecting!
