SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Lakers rookie Bronny James gave young sports fans an unforgettable experience at Rizo Sports during Fanatics Collectibles’ Topps Hobby Rip Night on Saturday afternoon.
The event offered young hobbyists a unique opportunity to meet and interact with James, who traded cards, answered questions and handed out USC trading cards from his personal collection.
Bronny James arrives at Rizo Sports for a Topps x Fanatics event in Santa Monica. #Lakeshow pic.twitter.com/UPGNJE2Ipn
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) September 14, 2024
Though new to the world of trading cards, Bronny embraced the excitement of the event.
“It feels really good," he said. "Glad I can go play with cards of myself.”
He also said that, despite being the face on his own trading cards, he only collects those of his father, LeBron James.
Bronny James says the only trading cards he collects are of his dad, LeBron James. #Lakeshow pic.twitter.com/jZCutWdAu3
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) September 15, 2024
Bronny's appearance generated buzz, particularly during a Q&A session with the kids in attendance. One of the more playful questions he was asked: Who would he pick to win a 3-point contest between his dad, LeBron James, and NBA sharpshooter Steph Curry?
He chose Steph.
Bronny James leaving the Topps trading card event with Parker Richardson. #Lakeshow pic.twitter.com/HxaZPh9cqF
— Lauren Jones (@LoJoMedia) September 14, 2024
It was an action-packed Saturday where hobbyists of all ages across the globe shared their love for sports trading cards and memorabilia. Attendees were treated to exciting activities like pack wars, trivia, and other in-store games. Special giveaways, including 100,000+ exclusive Topps Hobby Rip Night packs, added to the thrill.
Fanatics
This year, Topps Hobby Rip Night truly went global, with events hosted in cities worldwide. From Toronto to Tokyo, Hong Kong to Shanghai, and even London, Paris, Milan, Thessaloniki (Greece), Roermond and Amsterdam (Netherlands), collectors from all corners of the globe gathered to celebrate their passion for the hobby.
Topps Hobby Rip Night, an annual celebration for sports trading card and memorabilia enthusiasts, unites thousands of collectors worldwide. Attendees enjoy rip parties, trade nights, and special giveaways, while athletes like Bronny interact with fans, trade cards, and participate in Q&As, making the event truly memorable for all involved.
Santa Monica wasn’t the only hotspot for trading card enthusiasts. Several notable athletes participated in Topps Hobby Rip Night events across the country, including:
Tom Brady at Triple Sports Cards in Dallas
Victor Wembanyama at Boomtown Sports Cards & Collectibles in San Antonio
Anthony Volpe, Nestor Cortes, and Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin at Bleecker Trading in New York
Dez Bryant at FYE Cards in Dallas
Dana White at Paradise Cards in Las Vegas
Kevin Hart at Collector’s World in Washington D.C.
Quavo and Michael Rubin at Santiago Cards in Old Bridge, NJ
Brandon Graham and Michael Rubin at Wheelhouse Cards in Philadelphia
PJ Tucker and Michael Rubin at The Card Capitol in Collingswood, NJ
As Topps Hobby Rip Night continues to expand, it creates a platform for athletes and fans to bond over their shared love of sports trading cards.
James’ participation in Santa Monica exemplified the event’s spirit of community, creating lasting memories for the next generation of hobbyists.