2023-24 Phoenix Suns Basketball Checklist: What to Collect
The 2023-24 NBA season saw a significant shift in the Phoenix Suns roster, making their trading cards highly sought after by collectors. This checklist covers the key players, sets, and variations to look for when building your Suns collection from this year.
Key Players on the 2023-24 Phoenix Suns Roster
The Suns’ big three – Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal – are the primary targets for collectors. However, the team also features notable role players whose cards can be valuable, particularly rookie cards or limited-edition parallels. Be on the lookout for cards featuring Deandre Ayton (until he was traded mid-season), Grayson Allen, and Jusuf Nurkić as well.
Popular 2023-24 Basketball Card Sets to Watch For
Several sets released during the 2023-24 season feature Phoenix Suns players. These include Panini Prizm, Panini Donruss Optic, Panini Select, and Panini Hoops. Each set has its own design and rarity levels, influencing the value of individual cards. Prizm is often considered the flagship set and boasts a wide range of parallels. Donruss Optic is popular for its chromium stock and on-card autographs. Select features tiered designs and vibrant colors. Hoops is a budget-friendly option with numerous inserts.
Chase Cards: Autographs, Relics, and Parallels
Autographed cards featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal are highly desirable, especially those with on-card signatures. Jersey relic cards, containing pieces of game-worn memorabilia, are also popular. Parallels, which are variations of base cards with different colors, textures, or serial numbering, add another layer of collectibility. Look for rare parallels like Gold, Black, and 1/1 cards for maximum value. More about basketball card collecting can be found on trading card Wikipedia page.
Where to Find 2023-24 Phoenix Suns Cards
You can find 2023-24 Phoenix Suns basketball cards at various locations, including local card shops, online marketplaces (eBay, COMC), hobby boxes and packs from retailers like Target and Walmart, and through group breaks. Research recent sales data to understand current market values before buying or selling.
FAQs About 2023-24 Phoenix Suns Basketball Cards
What are the most valuable 2023-24 Phoenix Suns cards?
Autographed cards of Durant, Booker, and Beal, especially those that are numbered or feature game-worn memorabilia, are generally the most valuable.
Where can I find checklists for specific 2023-24 basketball card sets?
Card websites like Cardboard Connection and Beckett often publish detailed checklists for each set.
Are rookie cards of Suns players valuable in 2023-24 sets?
While the Suns didn’t have any major rookie stars in 2023-24, keep an eye out for any rookies who exceeded expectations, as their cards may increase in value.
What does “parallel” mean in the context of basketball cards?
A parallel is a variation of a base card, often featuring a different color, pattern, or serial number, making it rarer and potentially more valuable.
How can I protect my valuable basketball cards?
Use penny sleeves and toploaders to protect individual cards. Store your collection in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Summary
Collecting 2023-24 Phoenix Suns basketball cards involves focusing on key players like Durant, Booker, and Beal, understanding the different card sets and their variations, and knowing where to find and protect your cards. Keep up-to-date with market trends to make informed buying and selling decisions.