September's Hottest Sports and Collectible Trends on eBay

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sat, Oct 10th, 2025 by Sports Illustrated

The Heat is On: eBay's September Sports Collectibles Trends Reveal a Shifting Market

September’s sports collectibles market, as observed through eBay data and expert analysis, reveals a complex landscape of rising values, shifting priorities, and emerging niches. A recent Sports Illustrated article (https://www.si.com/collectibles/september-s-hottest-sports-and-collectible-trends-on-ebay) highlights these trends, painting a picture of both established favorites and surprising newcomers dominating the online auction platform.

The Reign Continues: Michael Jordan Remains King

Unsurprisingly, Michael Jordan continues to command the highest prices within the sports collectibles market. The article emphasizes that Jordan cards, particularly those from his early career with the Chicago Bulls, are experiencing sustained demand. While the frenzy surrounding 1990s-era inserts has cooled somewhat from its peak in recent years, high-grade examples of key cards like the 1986 Fleer rookie card (#57) and various Upper Deck cards remain highly sought after. The article notes that even more affordable Jordan options are seeing increased interest as newer collectors enter the hobby. The sheer volume of listings and sales related to Jordan demonstrates his enduring appeal, solidifying his position as the most valuable athlete in the collectibles world.

Baseball's Resurgence: Shohei Ohtani Drives Demand

While basketball dominates overall value, baseball is experiencing a notable resurgence fueled primarily by Los Angeles Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani’s unique ability to excel both as a pitcher and hitter has captivated fans and collectors alike. His 2021 Topps Chrome cards, in particular, are seeing significant price increases. The article points out that the scarcity of high-grade Ohtani cards contributes significantly to their value. Collectors are willing to pay premiums for perfectly centered and graded examples, reflecting a desire for pristine condition within this burgeoning market segment. The excitement surrounding his performance continues to translate directly into increased demand for his memorabilia.

Football's Focus: Patrick Mahomes & the 2023 NFL Season

The National Football League (NFL) collectibles market is currently driven by Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. His rookie cards and autographed items are consistently performing well, benefiting from both his on-field success and widespread popularity. With the start of the 2023 NFL season, interest in all football cards is expected to increase, but Mahomes remains a focal point. The article suggests that collectors are also paying attention to emerging players who demonstrate potential for future stardom, although these investments carry more risk.

Hockey's Hidden Gems: Connor Bedard and Vintage Sets

The hockey market presents a mixed picture. While established stars like Sidney Crosby still hold value, the arrival of phenom Connor Bedard in the NHL has injected fresh energy into the hobby. Bedard’s rookie cards are experiencing rapid price appreciation, mirroring the Ohtani effect in baseball. The article also highlights renewed interest in vintage hockey card sets from the 1970s and 1980s, driven by nostalgia and a desire for unique pieces of sports history. These older sets often feature iconic players and designs that appeal to seasoned collectors.

Beyond the Big Four: Wrestling & International Sports Gain Traction

The Sports Illustrated article also notes expanding interest in collectibles outside of the traditional “Big Four” sports (basketball, baseball, football, hockey). Professional wrestling memorabilia, particularly cards and autographs featuring stars like John Cena and The Rock, are gaining popularity. This trend reflects a broader shift towards niche collecting, where enthusiasts seek out items related to their specific passions. Furthermore, there's growing demand for collectibles from international sports leagues, such as soccer (football) and Formula 1 racing. This expansion demonstrates the increasing globalization of the collectibles market and the willingness of collectors to explore beyond familiar territory.

The Impact of Grading & Authentication

Throughout the article, the importance of professional grading services like PSA and Beckett is emphasized. Collectors are increasingly prioritizing cards that have been authenticated and graded, as this provides assurance of authenticity and condition. A higher grade typically translates into a significantly higher price, reflecting the perceived value of a well-preserved card. The article suggests that the grading market itself remains robust, with demand for authentication services consistently high.

eBay's Role & Market Dynamics

eBay continues to be a dominant platform for buying and selling sports collectibles. The article highlights eBay’s ability to provide real-time data on pricing trends and sales volume, allowing collectors to track the market and make informed decisions. However, it also acknowledges that the online marketplace is subject to fluctuations based on factors such as economic conditions, player performance, and overall collector sentiment. The ease of access afforded by eBay has democratized the hobby, but also introduces volatility.

The September trends indicate a collectibles market driven by established stars, fueled by emerging talent, and expanding into new niches. While Michael Jordan remains the undisputed king, the rising values of Shohei Ohtani and Connor Bedard demonstrate the power of exceptional athletic performance to drive collector demand. The continued importance of grading and authentication underscores the emphasis on quality and authenticity within this evolving market.