Each NBA franchise's most iconic card

[Deadshot]

I'm curious to know what people think each franchise's most iconic card is. Do we only stick to attainable cards (IE no 1/1s)? Does value factor in? Are the majority going to be RPAs? How will we treat franchises that have moved? You guys decide.

Atlanta Hawks -
Boston Celtics -
Brooklyn Nets -
Charlotte Hornets -
Chicago Bulls -
Cleveland Cavaliers -
Dallas Mavericks -
Denver Nuggets -
Detroit Pistons -
Golden State Warriors -
Houston Rockets -
Indiana Pacers -
LA Clippers -
LA Lakers -
Memphis Grizzlies -
Miami Heat -
Milwaukee Bucks -
Minnesota Timberwolves -
New Orleans Pelicans -
New York Knicks -
Oklahoma City Thunder -
Orlando Magic -
Philadelphia Sixers -
Phoenix Suns -
Portland Trail Blazers -
Sacramento Kings -
San Antonio Spurs -
Toronto Raptors -
Utah Jazz -
Washington Wizards -

[Jasondr91]

Charlotte - The 1991 Upper Deck Larry Johnson Star Rookie was pretty iconic for the time and the franchise. Same with the 92 Hoops Alonzo Mourning draft redemption.

[oshmeehan]

Sacramento Kings - Harry Giles Prizm RC
Miami Heat - 92/93 Fleer Ultra Harold Miner RC

[kukocitb]

Denver- 1991 Upper Deck Dikembe Mutumbo rookie. That is just an awesome card.

Chicago- anything Kukoc....LOL!

[KnicksLife]

Lakers - LeBron James Optic Holo:D

[bigjbasketball]

Denver- 1991 Upper Deck Dikembe Mutumbo rookie. That is just an awesome card.

Chicago- anything Kukoc....LOL!

I definitely remember EVERYONE needing that Mutombo UD RC when it came out! The Larry Johnson one with him on the phone in the same set was pretty great as well.

Magic - 92 Shaq UD redemption (the one with the 3-part photo of him dunking with the black background). This was another truly iconic card and really jump-started the hobby back in the early 90s.

[kukocitb]

I definitely remember EVERYONE needing that Mutombo UD RC when it came out! The Larry Johnson one with him on the phone in the same set was pretty great as well.

Magic - 92 Shaq UD redemption (the one with the 3-part photo of him dunking with the black background). This was another truly iconic card and really jump-started the hobby back in the early 90s.

Cannot believe I forgot about the Shaq. That is a great card.

[Lee42]

For Orlando id say the Shaq UD Rookie or Stadium Club Beam Team.

[Zedlaw]

Such a beautiful thread idea.

Suns - 1996-97 Nash Topps Chrome

From a forgettable era but bridges the Barkley (jersey) and 7 seconds or less (M-V-Steve) eras wonderfully. And just like the Suns, you pull this card back in 1996 and you’re severely disappointed but looking back you notice a rich 50 year history and top 7 all time winning percentage.

[n1nesports]

Tough to decide, so many reasons why.....
I'll pick 2 that come to mind as far as Raptors go.

https://img.comc.com/i/Basketball/1995-96/SP---Premium-Collection-Holoview---Die-Cut-Special-FX/36/Damon-Stoudamire.jpg?id=354b4a1f-cbb7-4282-b9ad-25c571c0907c&size=original
https://img.comc.com/i/Basketball/1998-99/SP-Authentic---Base/95/Vince-Carter.jpg?id=60aba348-9f08-47e8-a6c0-5d6f1a1d8fa3&size=zoom

[Pathora]

For sure the most iconic for Indiana Pacers.
https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7c/7d/04/7c7d0458271b580391b0bc89e0728525.jpg

[Deadshot]

For sure the most iconic for Indiana Pacers.


SteveO and I were talking about that this afternoon. It's got to be the "boring old Reggie rookie" :cry: Granger was the nicest RPA we had pre-PG. And it just doesn't feel right having a PG card (nor do I think that is the most iconic). JO wasn't with us as a rookie. No one really cares for the ABA rookies except for the HOF collectors.

[smalltown]

Tough to decide, so many reasons why.....
I'll pick 2 that come to mind as far as Raptors go.

I have a really hard time with this question. I don't think i can pick one.

[Deadshot]

I have a really hard time with this question. I don't think i can pick one.

Give us a top 3

[ToddW]

Milwaukee -- 69-70 Topps Lew Alcindor RC
Atlanta - 86-87 Fleer Dominique Wilkens RC
Knicks - 69-70 Topps Walt Frazier RC
Spurs - 89-90 Hoops David Robinson RC
Lakers & Celtics - 1980 Magic/Bird Rookie
Bullets (err Wizards) - 69-70 Wes Unseld RC
Portland - 74 Bill Walton RC or 86-87 Clyde Drexler RC

[PKIPP]

Pistons- 86-87 Fleer Isiah Thomas RC in my opinion. I don't think anything else is really in the discussion unless we wanna go with a Grant Hill PMG?

[smalltown]

Pistons- 86-87 Fleer Isiah Thomas RC in my opinion. I don't think anything else is really in the discussion unless we wanna go with a Grant Hill PMG?

100% it's this.

[PKIPP]

Supersonics- Kevin Durant Exquisite RPA

Thunder- Russell Westbrook Exquisite RPA or James Harden National Treasures RPA? I know one outsells the other but is that what should decide it?

[PKIPP]

100% it's this.

Yeah I figured. Pistons have a lot of awesome cards from over the years but it's hard thinking any of them are iconic other than the Zeke RC

[smalltown]

Give us a top 3

I'm going to lean towards:

1998 Topps Chrome Vince Carter Refractor RC

But that said i hate the aesthetic of all the Vince Carter rookie year sets.

[ToddW]

Yeah I figured. Pistons have a lot of awesome cards from over the years but it's hard thinking any of them are iconic other than the Zeke RC

88-89 Fleer Rodman is the only one I could think of.

[smalltown]

Yeah I figured. Pistons have a lot of awesome cards from over the years but it's hard thinking any of them are iconic other than the Zeke RC

As an old school Pistons fan it's the only card i had to have.

https://i.imgur.com/C4X56zp.jpg

[PKIPP]

As an old school Pistons fan it's the only card i had to have.

https://i.imgur.com/C4X56zp.jpg

Love it! Great grade on that too!

[smanzari]

88-89 Fleer Rodman is the only one I could think of.

1986-87 Fleer Joe D.
1986-87 Fleer Isiah Thomas
1994-95 Topps Finest Grant Hill RC

[PKIPP]

I think I'm gonna start a thread like this in the baseball section. Would be interested to see ppl's ideas on those too.

[Ober12]

Cavs - Lebron Exquisite RPA
Bulls - Jordan 86 Fleer
Warriors - Curry Topps Chrome?

[duwal]

Knicks - 1990/91 Hoops Mark Jackson

[Jocel]

For the sixers a choice of

1972 Topps Julius Erving

And
1996-97 Toppps Chrome Refractors Allen Iverson


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[ToddW]

For the sixers a choice of

1972 Topps Julius Erving

And
1996-97 Toppps Chrome Refractors Allen Iverson


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Can you count the Erving Squires card? I thought about that.

[smalltown]

Can you count the Erving Squires card? I thought about that.

No. He played for Virginia and then NY Nets before. The Squires have nothing to do with Philly.

[ClipsandVols]

Clippers is easily the Blake Griffin NT RPA

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[smalltown]

The Lakers are a really hard one is it:

1948 Bowman George Mikan
or
1980 Topps Larry Bird & Magic Johnson

I guess you could say one for Minneapolis and one for LA? I don't think Jerry West or Kobe quite rate with those too.

[Justin7]

I love collecting Sixers. 96 AI is nice but for me I’ve gotta go with:
Sixers- 1961 Fleer Wilt Chamberlain

[WalterAZ31]

i think it would be best served to do by decade and then go from there

[Zedlaw]

I’m not a Laker fan, but I can’t imagine them being happy sharing their iconic franchise card with a Celtic. 1961 Elgin Baylor is also a giant.

[yankeesfan24]

New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets: Brook Lopez Exquisite RPA /225.

Nothing crazy, but Brook is the franchise's all-time leading score, and the Nets haven't had any other decent rookies that have started their career on the Nets.

[ninjacookies]

Warriors: Eric Paschall Contenders Draft School Colors

[theLUCKYshow]

I love me some Harry Giles Silver Prizms but the Kings' most iconic card probably has to go the Big O:https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20191118/51ad07445d56931eac81befd14820c5b.jpg

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[Pathora]

New Jersey/Brooklyn Nets: Brook Lopez Exquisite RPA /225.

Nothing crazy, but Brook is the franchise's all-time leading score, and the Nets haven't had any other decent rookies that have started their career on the Nets.

Is there a Dr J Nets ABA card? If so that's way more iconic. Oh NBA.. Not sure if there's some Nets NBA finals jerseys or not.

Another card to consider is the Kenyon Martin SP Authentic RC auto, that was a monster back in the day.

[ToddW]

Is there a Dr J Nets ABA card? If so that's way more iconic. Oh NBA.. Not sure if there's some Nets NBA finals jerseys or not.

Another card to consider is the Kenyon Martin SP Authentic RC auto, that was a monster back in the day.

90-91 Skybox Derrick Coleman RC

[ninjacookies]

90-91 Skybox Derrick Coleman RC

Good pick. I'd almost argue his 90-91 Hoops could be number 1.

I'll never forget how that card looks. Him and GP on the phone. Priceless.

[ToddW]

Good pick. I'd almost argue his 90-91 Hoops could be number 1.

I'll never forget how that card looks. Him and GP on the phone. Priceless.

Either one works for me. Derrick Coleman will always be the name associated w/ the Nets for me.

[Archangel1775]

Atlanta Hawks - Dominique Wilkins 1986 Fleer
Boston Celtics - Bird w/Magic 1980 Topps
Chicago Bulls - HA
Cleveland Cavaliers - LeBron 2003 Exquisite
Detroit Pistons - Isiah Thomas 1986 Fleer
Golden State Warriors - Stephen Curry 2009 Topps
Houston Rockets - Akeem Olajuwon 1986 Fleer
Indiana Pacers - Reggie Miller 1988 Fleer
LA Lakers - Magic w/Bird 1980 Topps
Miami Heat - Dwyane Wade 2003 Exquisite
Orlando Magic - Shaq 1992 Upper Deck
Philadelphia Sixers - Charles Barkley 1986 Fleer
San Antonio Spurs - David Robinson 89 Hoops
Toronto Raptors - Vince Carter 98 SP Authentic

Seattle Supersonics- Shawn Kemp 1990 Hoops

[Lee42]

Timberwolves - Kevin Garnett Finest RC?

[yankeesfan24]

Is there a Dr J Nets ABA card? If so that's way more iconic. Oh NBA.. Not sure if there's some Nets NBA finals jerseys or not.

Another card to consider is the Kenyon Martin SP Authentic RC auto, that was a monster back in the day.

KMart would be another good choice, as would the RJ SPA rc auto. But Lopez is the bridge between NJ and Brooklyn, and has several team records.

Dr. J was a rookie on the Virginia squires. He has some Panini Nets autos and a few UD as well. The Chronology dunk contest as a Net would also be a candidate.

[Primo24]

KMart would be another good choice, as would the RJ SPA rc auto. But Lopez is the bridge between NJ and Brooklyn, and has several team records.

Dr. J was a rookie on the Virginia squires. He has some Panini Nets autos and a few UD as well. The Chronology dunk contest as a Net would also be a candidate.

All valid points regarding brook / k mart / rj. And too a Nets PC collector those are considered “must haves.” Would even add autographics kittles / van horn rc autos to that list. But what we have too consider is iconic nets cards too a non nets fan and would agree the skybox or hoops Coleman rookie is thee iconic card for the franchise. Due to the fact this was the first nets card every collector was chasing for during its release.

What about the rick Barry rc card?

[TigerEyes]

Mavericks - 18-19 Prizm Luka Doncic. Yes, I said it.

[rats60]

I love collecting Sixers. 96 AI is nice but for me I’ve gotta go with:
Sixers- 1961 Fleer Wilt Chamberlain

Except it isn't a 76ers card it is a Warriors card.

Lakers 1948 Bowman Mikan
Celtics 1957 Topps Russell
Hawks 1957 Topps Pettit
Warriors 1961 Fleer Chamberlain
Kings 1961 Fleer Big O
Bucks 1969 Topps Alcindor

[asujbl]

Cavs - LeBron Topps Chrome (I consider that more iconic that the EXQ... that’s just me)

Mark Price Fleer being 2nd

[ktzdaman]

Growing up in Portland in the 80’s, two cards come to mind...

86 fleer Drexel was the best card ever. You were the coolest kid in the hood if you had one.

86 fleer Sam Bowie was a holy grail. We put them in bike spikes, burned them with magnifying glasses and threw them off down town bridges :)

[rats60]

Atlanta Hawks - 1957 Topps Pettit
Boston Celtics - 1957 Topps Russell
Brooklyn Nets - 1971 Topps Barry
Charlotte Hornets - 2005 Exquisite Paul RPA
Chicago Bulls - 1986 Fleer Jordan
Cleveland Cavaliers - 2003 Exquisite LeBron RPA
Dallas Mavericks - 1999 SPA Nowitzki
Denver Nuggets - 1976 Topps Thompson
Detroit Pistons - 1986 Fleer Thomas
Golden State Warriors - 1961 Fleer Chamberlain
Houston Rockets - 1986 Fleer Olajuwon
Indiana Pacers - 1988 Fleer Miller
LA Clippers - 2009 NT Griffin RPA
LA Lakers - 1948 Bowman Mikan
Memphis Grizzlies - 2007 Exquisite Conley RPA
Miami Heat - 2003 Exquisite Wade RPA
Milwaukee Bucks - 1969 Topps Alcindor
Minnesota Timberwolves - 1995 Finest Garnett
New Orleans Pelicans - 2012 NT Davis RPA
New York Knicks - 1969 Topps Reed
Oklahoma City Thunder - 2007 Exquisite Durant RPA
Orlando Magic - 1992 UD Shaq
Philadelphia Sixers - 1996 Fleer Barkley
Phoenix Suns - 1996 Chrome Nash
Portland Trail Blazers - 1974 Topps Walton
Sacramento Kings - 1961 Fleer Big O
San Antonio Spurs - 1997 Chrome Duncan
Toronto Raptors - 1998 SP Carter
Utah Jazz - 1986 Fleer K. Malone
Washington Wizards - 2010 NT Wall RPA

[mindcycle]

Denver- 1991 Upper Deck Dikembe Mutumbo rookie. That is just an awesome card.

Agreed! That was THE Nuggets card of the 90's for sure.

https://img.comc.com/i/Basketball/1991-92/Upper-Deck---Base/3/Dikembe-Mutombo.jpg?id=f2b88315-234c-46b5-9acc-0f93d238a257&size=zoom

For me this McDyess is a close second.

https://img.comc.com/i/Basketball/1995-96/Topps-Finest---Base/112/Antonio-McDyess.jpg?id=b90f6589-3de3-4f25-bbf1-0d43fabc08e8&size=zoom

Some may also consider this card as #1 being that Thompson was arguably the best player we ever drafted (thus far at least).

https://images.psacard.com/s3/cu-psa/cardfacts/1976-topps-110-david-thompson-16038.jpg?h=1000&format=png&s.roundcorners=10

[Justin7]

Atlanta Hawks - 1957 Topps Pettit
Boston Celtics - 1957 Topps Russell
Brooklyn Nets - 1971 Topps Barry
Charlotte Hornets - 2005 Exquisite Paul RPA
Chicago Bulls - 1986 Fleer Jordan
Cleveland Cavaliers - 2003 Exquisite LeBron RPA
Dallas Mavericks - 1999 SPA Nowitzki
Denver Nuggets - 1976 Topps Thompson
Detroit Pistons - 1986 Fleer Thomas
Golden State Warriors - 1961 Fleer Chamberlain
Houston Rockets - 1986 Fleer Olajuwon
Indiana Pacers - 1988 Fleer Miller
LA Clippers - 2009 NT Griffin RPA
LA Lakers - 1948 Bowman Mikan
Memphis Grizzlies - 2007 Exquisite Conley RPA
Miami Heat - 2003 Exquisite Wade RPA
Milwaukee Bucks - 1969 Topps Alcindor
Minnesota Timberwolves - 1995 Finest Garnett
New Orleans Pelicans - 2012 NT Davis RPA
New York Knicks - 1969 Topps Reed
Oklahoma City Thunder - 2007 Exquisite Durant RPA
Orlando Magic - 1992 UD Shaq
Philadelphia Sixers - 1996 Fleer Barkley
Phoenix Suns - 1996 Chrome Nash
Portland Trail Blazers - 1974 Topps Walton
Sacramento Kings - 1961 Fleer Big O
San Antonio Spurs - 1997 Chrome Duncan
Toronto Raptors - 1998 SP Carter
Utah Jazz - 1986 Fleer K. Malone
Washington Wizards - 2010 NT Wall RPA
Are we associating cards with teams or city's? Wilt's card shows a jersey that says Phila on it. Looks like a modern 76ers Jersey and he's from Philly. Us Sixers fans definitely claim his as our own so it's really weird seeing "golden state warriors". I suggest we include vintage teams and seperate them from modern teams.

[n1nesports]

I have a really hard time with this question. I don't think i can pick one.

Yea its tough, especially because some cards that weren't exactly high-end had a big buzz. Even Marcus Camby had his shine for a bit.

[n1nesports]

I'm going to lean towards:

1998 Topps Chrome Vince Carter Refractor RC

But that said i hate the aesthetic of all the Vince Carter rookie year sets.

That is definitely a big one too. I think the refractor rookies were not as accessible though and people were feeling the cleaner look from UD back then.

[smalltown]

Agreed! That was THE Nuggets card of the 90's for sure.

https://img.comc.com/i/Basketball/1991-92/Upper-Deck---Base/3/Dikembe-Mutombo.jpg?id=f2b88315-234c-46b5-9acc-0f93d238a257&size=zoom

That card was big time.

[smalltown]

That is definitely a big one too. I think the refractor rookies were not as accessible though and people were feeling the cleaner look from UD back then.

I hated ever set that year lol.

[Zedlaw]

Pau 01 Topps chrome black refractor for the Griz

[rifleman69]

Seattle SuperSonics has to be the first Thunder & Lightning of Kemp/Payton from Skybox. Thinking 92-93?

[n1nesports]

I hated ever set that year lol.

Well there were a lot of ugly cards out that year lol, actually nearly all the base cards were not very appealing to me. They had some nice subsets though.

[MRSPORTSCARD]

Celtics 1957 Topps Russell
The man had 11 rings. The most in sports history.

[49ersSF]

I'm curious to know what people think each franchise's most iconic card is. Do we only stick to attainable cards (IE no 1/1s)? Does value factor in? Are the majority going to be RPAs? How will we treat franchises that have moved? You guys decide.

Atlanta Hawks - 1970 Topps Maravich
Boston Celtics - 1957 Topps Bill Russell | 1980 Bird/Magic
Brooklyn Nets - 1971 Rick Barry
Charlotte Hornets - 1992 Alonzo Mourning Hoops Redemption
Chicago Bulls - 1986 Fleer Jordan
Cleveland Cavaliers - 2003 Lebron James
Dallas Mavericks - 1998 Topps Chrome Dirk
Denver Nuggets - 1976 Topps David Thompson
Detroit Pistons - 1986 Fleer Isiah Thomas
Golden State Warriors - 2009 Topps Curry | 1961 Wilt Chamberlain
Houston Rockets - 1986 Fleer Hakeem
Indiana Pacers - 1988 Reggie Miller
LA Clippers -
LA Lakers - 1996 Kobe Topps Chrome | 1980 Magic/Bird
Memphis Grizzlies - 2001 Pau Gasol
Miami Heat - 2003 Dwayne Wade
Milwaukee Bucks - 1969 Topps Kareem
Minnesota Timberwolves - 1995 Finest Garnett
New Orleans Pelicans - 2005 Chris Paul
New York Knicks - 1986 Patrick Ewing
Oklahoma City Thunder - 2007 Durant | 2008 Westbrook | 2009 Harden
Orlando Magic - 1992 Upper Deck Shaq
Philadelphia Sixers - 1986 Barkley | 1996 Iverson
Phoenix Suns - 1996 Nash
Portland Trail Blazers - 1974 Bill Walton
Sacramento Kings - 1961 Oscar Robertson
San Antonio Spurs - 1974 Gervin | 1989 David Robinson | 1997 Duncan
Toronto Raptors - 1998 Vince Carter
Utah Jazz - 1986 Fleer Karl Malone
Virginia Squires - 1972 Topps Dr. J
Washington Wizards - 1969 Wes Unseld
-

my best guesses

[the27guy]

Are we associating cards with teams or city's? Wilt's card shows a jersey that says Phila on it. Looks like a modern 76ers Jersey and he's from Philly. Us Sixers fans definitely claim his as our own so it's really weird seeing "golden state warriors". I suggest we include vintage teams and seperate them from modern teams.

I associate wilts rookie with the warriors. It’s a warriors card. Though, as you mention, from Philly.

[Justin7]

I associate wilts rookie with the warriors. It’s a warriors card. Though, as you mention, from Philly.

Welp maybe I am wrong about this one. The Jersey is just so Philly to me it had to be in my collection. To each their own, I guess!

[hairyangryfella]

Supersonics- Kevin Durant Exquisite RPA


Personally I'd say Gary Payton on the phone.

Though it entirely depends on your era.
For me:

Atlanta - Bob Pettit Topps RC
Boston - Bill Russell RC
Charlotte - LJ UD RC
Chicago - MJ Fleer RC
Cleveland - Lebron Exquisite RC
Dallas - Kidd Skybox Draft Picks
Denver - Mutombo UD RC
Detroit - Thomas Fleer RC
Golden State - hmmm, tough. I'd think CWeb something but maybe Curry Topps RC
Houston - Olajuwon Fleer RC
Indiana - Reggie Fleer RC
LAC - can't help but think something Ron Harper?
LAL - Shaq Skybox base with Lakers
Miami - Harold Minor Famous Nicknames
Milwaukee - Glenn Robinson Skybox Head of the Class
Minnesota - torn between Isiah Rider, KG and KAT but I'd probably say KG Finest RC
New Jersey - DWill Exquisite? Depends if Erving Topps RC counts
New York - Starks Stadium Club dunk over MJ
Orlando - Shaq UD RC
Philadelphia - Barkley Fleer RC if not Shawn Bradley UD RC... Though of course Wilt RC if counted
Phoenix - really not sure... Booker NT?
Portland - Drexler Fleer RC
Sacramento - Peja Topps Chrome RC
San Antonio - DRob Hoops RC
Seattle - Payton Hoops RC
Toronto - Carter SPA RC
Utah - Malone Fleer RC
Vancouver/Memphis - Reeves PMG?
Washington - Calbert Cha.... Haha prob Wall NT

[rats60]

Are we associating cards with teams or city's? Wilt's card shows a jersey that says Phila on it. Looks like a modern 76ers Jersey and he's from Philly. Us Sixers fans definitely claim his as our own so it's really weird seeing "golden state warriors". I suggest we include vintage teams and seperate them from modern teams.

I think it is a Warriors card because it is Philadelphia Warriors. The only one that is confusing is the Hornets because they moved, but transfered back their history to the current Charlotte team as well as the name, so it may be the 1991 UD L Johnson instead of Paul and a debate over Paul or AD for NO.

[Deadshot]

my best guesses

Atlanta Hawks - 1970 Pete Maravich

I'm surprised this thread got to the 3rd page before anyone mentioned this one. Did everyone forget about this one or is Petit/Nique still more iconic?

I'm also going to use this as another excuse to show mine off...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48458590062_0c84a99d16.jpg

[rats60]

I'm surprised this thread got to the 3rd page before anyone mentioned this one. Did everyone forget about this one or is Petit/Nique still more iconic?

I'm also going to use this as another excuse to show mine off...

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48458590062_0c84a99d16.jpg

I have the Pettit as more iconic. I originally thought of Maravich until I confirmed Pettit was a Hawks card. It is from a more iconic set and of a better player. Pettit is kind of forgot about but he and Wilt are the only ones to beat Russell's Celtics in the postseason. If we do have both St. Louis and Atlanta, Maravich would be my Atlanta card.

[Deadshot]

I figured that was the case - I can see that side, too. The "forgot about" part is the key for me. But I used the phrase "most iconic" without any real definition because I was interested to see how people interpreted it different.

[lietuvalabas]

i notice every card seems to be a rookie card. and i love mike conley, but i hardly think that cards iconic. i would actually say the limited logos jason williams from 04-05 exquiz

[yankeesfan24]

Personally I'd say Gary Payton on the phone.

Though it entirely depends on your era.
For me:

Atlanta - Bob Pettit Topps RC
Boston - Bill Russell RC
Charlotte - LJ UD RC
Chicago - MJ Fleer RC
Cleveland - Lebron Exquisite RC
Dallas - Kidd Skybox Draft Picks
Denver - Mutombo UD RC
Detroit - Thomas Fleer RC
Golden State - hmmm, tough. I'd think CWeb something but maybe Curry Topps RC
Houston - Olajuwon Fleer RC
Indiana - Reggie Fleer RC
LAC - can't help but think something Ron Harper?
LAL - Shaq Skybox base with Lakers
Miami - Harold Minor Famous Nicknames
Milwaukee - Glenn Robinson Skybox Head of the Class
Minnesota - torn between Isiah Rider, KG and KAT but I'd probably say KG Finest RC
New Jersey - DWill Exquisite? Depends if Erving Topps RC counts
New York - Starks Stadium Club dunk over MJ
Orlando - Shaq UD RC
Philadelphia - Barkley Fleer RC if not Shawn Bradley UD RC... Though of course Wilt RC if counted
Phoenix - really not sure... Booker NT?
Portland - Drexler Fleer RC
Sacramento - Peja Topps Chrome RC
San Antonio - DRob Hoops RC
Seattle - Payton Hoops RC
Toronto - Carter SPA RC
Utah - Malone Fleer RC
Vancouver/Memphis - Reeves PMG?
Washington - Calbert Cha.... Haha prob Wall NT

Please don't ever mention the words DWill and the Nets again. He is still on the payroll...

Give me the franchise's all-time scorer and most-liked player over a guy who was an utter disappointment during his time, especially since the card isn't even in a Nets uni.

[Deadshot]

Ok since Prizm is on everyone's mind right now, I want to throw out a question for discussion. Zion's projected NBA career is still pretty much a mystery. What would he have to do to supplant the AD RPA as the most iconic Pelicans card?

[ClipsandVols]

Ok since Prizm is on everyone's mind right now, I want to throw out a question for discussion. Zion's projected NBA career is still pretty much a mystery. What would he have to do to supplant the AD RPA as the most iconic Pelicans card?Become a lifer for New Orleans.

Sent from my Pixel 3a using Tapatalk

[Deadshot]

Become a lifer for New Orleans.

That sounds doable at least.

A similar question would be what does Giannis have to do to supplant the Kareem RC?

[gomiamigo]

I love collecting Sixers. 96 AI is nice but for me I’ve gotta go with:
Sixers- 1961 Fleer Wilt Chamberlain

see next post.

[gomiamigo]

I associate wilts rookie with the warriors. It’s a warriors card. Though, as you mention, from Philly.

The card says "Philadelphia" and the jersey on the card says 'Philly' and Wilt is from Philly and drafted by Philly so I can't imagine anyone thinking any other team but Philly.


Also 1996 Barkley? :rolleyes:


ps my dad went to HS and college with 2 of the above 5 players.

[Deadshot]

I've been thinking about this thread on and off the last 2 years. A lot has happened in that time frame and some of my selections have changed.

I recorded a 2-part podcast with showley2003 to talk through our selections.

Part 1: https://waxmuseum.podbean.com/e/episode-141-the-eastern-conference-s-most-iconic-cards-with-steve-aka-showley2003/
Part 2: https://waxmuseum.podbean.com/e/episode-142-the-western-conference-s-most-iconic-cards-with-steve-aka-showley2003/

I also made a video to recap our selections for the Eastern Conference:

8on1ODocsNw

[CurryOverLeBron]

Lakers - Magic/Bird rookie or Kobe Topps Chrome rookie

[JAMSC]

For Milwaukee, I think it has to be Giannis Prizm rookie at this point.

[Mahomie]

I know I'll catch some eyerolls for this, but in terms of hobby popularity, for the Hornets...it's already LaMelo Prizm rookie.

[mfw13]

For Milwaukee, I think it has to be Giannis Prizm rookie at this point.

Or Lew Alcindor's RC.....

[hermanotarjeta]

New York knicks - garbage fire magic the gathering card.

[JAMSC]

Or Lew Alcindor's RC.....


For a long time you would have been correct. Giannis is already the greatest Buck in history, and his Prizm rookie will go down as not just the most iconic Bucks card but one of the most iconic cards of the 2010s.

[rats60]

The Lakers are a really hard one is it:

1948 Bowman George Mikan
or
1980 Topps Larry Bird & Magic Johnson

I guess you could say one for Minneapolis and one for LA? I don't think Jerry West or Kobe quite rate with those too.

The 1948 Bowman Mikan is more iconic than Bird/Magic. Kobe Chrome refractor would be #2 followed by 1961 Fleer West and Baylor. Magic is the #1 Laker, but would only be #5 card wise because of it not being a solo card and when it was made.

[bloodwings19]

Modern 76ers- Ben Simmons Prizm Rookie Card

If it wasn't for Simmons, I don't think I would be interested in getting back to BKB cards.

[hairyangryfella]

Personally I'd say Gary Payton on the phone.

Though it entirely depends on your era.
For me:

Atlanta - Bob Pettit Topps RC
Boston - Bill Russell RC
Charlotte - LJ UD RC
Chicago - MJ Fleer RC
Cleveland - Lebron Exquisite RC
Dallas - Kidd Skybox Draft Picks
Denver - Mutombo UD RC
Detroit - Thomas Fleer RC
Golden State - hmmm, tough. I'd think CWeb something but maybe Curry Topps RC
Houston - Olajuwon Fleer RC
Indiana - Reggie Fleer RC
LAC - can't help but think something Ron Harper?
LAL - Shaq Skybox base with Lakers
Miami - Harold Minor Famous Nicknames
Milwaukee - Glenn Robinson Skybox Head of the Class
Minnesota - torn between Isiah Rider, KG and KAT but I'd probably say KG Finest RC
New Jersey - DWill Exquisite? Depends if Erving Topps RC counts
New York - Starks Stadium Club dunk over MJ
Orlando - Shaq UD RC
Philadelphia - Barkley Fleer RC if not Shawn Bradley UD RC... Though of course Wilt RC if counted
Phoenix - really not sure... Booker NT?
Portland - Drexler Fleer RC
Sacramento - Peja Topps Chrome RC
San Antonio - DRob Hoops RC
Seattle - Payton Hoops RC
Toronto - Carter SPA RC
Utah - Malone Fleer RC
Vancouver/Memphis - Reeves PMG?
Washington - Calbert Cha.... Haha prob Wall NT

Good to see I'm pretty consistent - the suggestions I made on the IG posts were pretty much what I said two years ago...
Though I am an idiot for putting a Jazz card down for the Nets one... :doh:

[brock]

New Orleans - Zion one and one

Don't @ me.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[JAMSC]

For franchises that have been around long enough, maybe do most iconic vintage and most iconic modern card.

[Nomad]

Dallas has to be the Doncic Prizm by now? Memphis I would be torn between the Ja's Prizm and the Dunk.

[Deadshot]

Dallas has to be the Doncic Prizm by now? Memphis I would be torn between the Ja's Prizm and the Dunk.

I referenced all 3 of those in my latest episode. I went with Ja Prizm. I didn't want to go with so much ultra modern stuff, but there aren't a lot of Grizzlies cards to choose from.

[Tallboy]

Such a cool project. Off the top of my head without looking at others' picks - just because I think this is fun to do too!

(Adding secondary choices for each team based on either era or scarcity differences.)

Atlanta Hawks - Topps Bob Pettit RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2008/2008-630173Fr.jpg

Obvious choice, not a huge fan of the card aesthetics though.

Honorable Mention: Topps Pete Maravich RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2013/2013-630518RepFr.jpg

Overrated as a player, but iconic nonetheless.

Boston Celtics - Topps Bill Russell RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2008/2008-630226RepFr.jpg

Also obvious choice, but love the card. Actually getting a live action shot of the GOAT defender playing defense in his 1950s RC? Wow!

Honorable Mention - 1980-81 Topps Bird/Erving/Magic

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2031/2031-632472RepFr.jpg

Less iconic for the Celtics due to it not just being Bird, still the clear #2.

Brooklyn Nets - 1974-75 "1973-74 ABA Championship: Nets vs Stars"

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2022/2022-249Fr.jpg

Since you focus on franchises themselves, if I can find a card that really shows the franchise at their apex, that seems perfect. In this shot we see Dr. J - the greatest Net by a massive margin - as their avatar winning the championship for them.

Honorable Mention - 2001-02 Fleer Showcase Jason Kidd

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2971/2971-731461Fr.jpg

Tough one. Chose my fave image from Kidd's first year on the Nets.


Charlotte Hornets - SkyBox Alonzo Mourning RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2108/2108-332Fr.jpg

Essentially, the best looking RC from the best player in Charlotte's history to this point with a clear emphasis on CHARLOTTE. (Note that Chris Paul only ever played in NO, which is now grouped officially with the Pelicans.)

Honorable Mention: Elite LaMelo Ball RC

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/g1gAAOSwzihhF9-I/s-l1600.jpg

I'm sure something else will be the iconic LaMelo RC, but I like this one best so far.

Chicago Bulls - Fleer Michael Jordan RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2067/2067-618527RepFr.jpg

Tempted to pick Metal Universe PMG. Also considered the Star XRC. I also have a known fetish for the 1995-96 Topps #1 Power Booster. But I do think the Fleer is the most iconic of the bunch.

Honorable Mention - 1997-98 Metal Universe Precious Metal Gems Michael Jordan

https://xcdn.cardboardconnection.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1997-98-Metal-Universe-Precious-Metal-Gems-Red-Michael-Jordan-208x300.jpg

Stunning.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Exquisite LeBron James RPA

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/3063/3063-752959RepFr.jpg

Runner up to his Topps RC even above the Chrome. The white suit stands out, but I think the RPA - with it being essentially the first RPA - is just too much to top.

Honorable Mention - 2008-09 Topps 23 LeBron James

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/8523/8523-665568RepFr.jpg

Well if I'm going to pic a second LeBron, might as well pick the one with the best franchise aesthetic.
Dallas Mavericks - SkyBox Dirk Nowitzki RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2778/2778-703517Fr.jpg

My fave Dirk RC. Would be a better fit here if you could see the jersey better, but I love the use of team colors SkyBox uses.

Honorable Mention - Chronicles Marquee Luka Doncic RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/205013/205013-13294402Fr.jpg

Picking a Luka, to me this card captures him as a Mav better than any other.

Denver Nuggets - Revolution Nikola Jokic RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/119583/119583-8456783Fr.jpg

When a brand debuts the same time a superstar does, to me that often adds to the iconic stature. Add in the beautiful team color design, and to me this is your perfect Nuggets RC - as well as one of the most iconic cards of the 2010s now that Jokic has emerged as an MVP.

Honorable Mention - Topps Bobby Jones RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2024/2024-631894Fr.jpg

Shout out to the ABA years.

Detroit Pistons - 1948 Exhibit Bobby McDermott

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Multi-Sport/247910/247910-15395460Fr.jpg

Showing my eccentric history-intensive perspective here.

Most people don't realize that the (Zollner) Pistons were the best team of the 1940s with Bobby McDermott as their star in that era - and the best peak pro player of that era other than Mikan.

It's the 1940s that make me consider the Pistons one of the greatest franchises in NBA history much more so than the '80s or '00s.

Honorable Mention - Fleer Isiah Thomas RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2067/2067-109Fr.jpg

The card I think most would put as the #1 for the franchise.

Golden State Warriors - National Treasures Steph Curry RPA

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/10105/10105-785916RepFr.jpg

Gah! This one is brutal between the NT Curry and Wilt's RC. In the end I tended to ask myself "Who was the greatest player FOR this franchise?", and there the answer is definitively Curry even though Wilt has the greater overall career. When one guy gets you 3 chips and the other gives you 0...

A second factor is that since this was the debut of the Panini era, this particular NT card - beginning the new norm of the NT RPA as the crown jewel of basketball cards each year - kinda defines the era we've been in ever since. (Though there is another card later on this list that offers a strong counter.)

Honorable Mention - Fleer Wilt Chamberlain RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2010/2010-630237RepFr.jpg

Adding that makes me feel better.

Houston Rockets - '86-87 Fleer Stickers Hakeem Olajuwon RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2068/2068-618611Fr.jpg

Wouldn't expect most to pick this, but for me subject aesthetic is a big deal, and so to me this card is the iconic Dream card. You see his outstretched length blocking a shot - arguably his signature move - and you see it against freaking Magic Johnson. So sweet.

Honorable Mention - '78-79 Topps Moses Malone

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2029/2029-38Fr.jpg

Great dynamic shot. Moses didn't move like big men were supposed to move.

Indiana Pacers - Fleer Reggie Miller RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2071/2071-57Fr.jpg

Frankly hoping to see others (Deadshot?) pick an ABA-era card, but to me Reggie is Mr. Pacer.

EDIT: Honorary ABA card:

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2015/2015-195Fr.jpg

LA Clippers - National Treasures Blake Griffin RPA

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/10105/10105-785911Fr.jpg

Career didn't live up to the initial height, but I'd say this card remains the clear choice as most iconic in franchise history.

Honorable Mention - Topps Bib McAdoo RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2021/2021-135Fr.jpg

The only MVP the franchise has ever had, and - other than Griffin - the only player even close to that level who has an RC with the franchise.

LA Lakers - Topps Chrome Refractor Kobe Bryant RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2565/2565-3013076RepFr.jpg

Pains me not to side with George Mikan's Bowman RC since I personally would cherish that card more, but the Kobe Chrome Refractor is probably the most iconic card of the modern (1989 onward) era.

Honorable Mention - Bowman George Mikan RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2006/2006-622297RepFr.jpg

Feel better now. Go MPLS!

Memphis Grizzlies - Bowman Elevation Mike Conley RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/7587/7587-650255Fr.jpg

Really don't feel strongly about this, but it's a nice card of one of the two greatest Grizzlies.

Honorable Mention - Chronicles Luminance Ja Morant RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/233121/233121-14898290Fr.jpg

I have mixed feelings about this card. To me what appears amazing about it is that you can't imagine anyone could successfully complete the dunk...and then you realize - if you look it up- that Ja didn't complete the dunk.

Fitting for what we have from Ja at this point though. I might advocate for the Select Premier RC as a more elegant card, but the Luminance feels right, right now.

Miami Heat - Exquisite Dwyane Wade RPA

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/3063/3063-752955RepFr.jpg

Honorable Mention - 2012-13 Hoops Courtside LeBron James

Franchise GOAT, also a part of that first Exquisite crop.

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/76639/76639-5696623Fr.jpg

Best card image I'm aware from the LeBron era in Miami.

As far as I know, they never made a card of the classic Wade-to-LeBron alley-oop photo. I wonder why not.

Milwaukee Grizzlies - Prizm Prizm Giannis Antetokounmpo RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/89173/89173-6515000Fr.jpg

REALLY pains me because I'd personally much rather have the Tallboy Lew Alcindor RC, but the Giannis card probably defines the Panini era even more than the NT Curry.

Honorable Mention - Topps Lew Alcindor RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2012/2012-630320RepFr.jpg

Love it so much.

Minnesota Timberwolves - Topps Kevin Garnett RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2420/2420-237Fr.jpg

A KG RC seems the obvious choice and I'm on record that the Topps is tops in this particular case - with the Finest RC being weak even before the greening.

Honorable Mention - Topps Chrome Kevin Love RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/8900/8900-666280Fr.jpg

Love is the next man (way) down after KG, the Topps design in his RC year is GOAT, and the Chrome card has the better franchise image by far.

New Orleans Pelicans - Upper Deck Trilogy Chris Paul RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/3141/3141-770246Fr.jpg

Great card, great set, does say "New Orleans" on it, and from the GOAT in franchise history.

I'll acknowledge that it would be good to actually get a Pelican card on here, and that Zion would be clear candidate to consider given the historical significance of his hype, but if I count all the years this franchise was in NO, Paul's the guy I'd pick to this point.

Honorable Mention - Panini Anthony Davis RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/78145/78145-5564611RepFr.jpg

Maybe I'm the only one, but I love the Panini design from this year. Also love that we get the NOLA jersey here, and we see Davis in game.

New York Knicks - Topps Willis Reed RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2012/2012-60Fr.jpg

The Knicks MVP and Captain of their Golden Age. His rookie from my favorite set which also included RCs of everybody else in the Knicks core.

Honorable Mention - Star Patrick Ewing XRC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2060/2060-633573RepFr.jpg

XRC has the best Ewing image.

Oklahoma City Thunder - Topps Chrome Russell Westbrook RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/8900/8900-666279Fr.jpg

With KD's RC being with a Sonic green & yellow none of us think about him wearing, gotta go with a great Russ RC.

Honorable Mention - '91-92 Upper Deck Gary Payton

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2090/2090-665148RepFr.jpg

All GP's rookies look awful. This card from his 2nd year is something special.

Orlando Magic - Stadium Club Beam Team Shaquille O'Neal RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/2114/2114-670841RepFr.jpg

Despite being a mere insert, to me this feels like THE Orlando Magic card to me.

Honorable Mention - Ultra Anfernee Hardaway RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2179/2179-305Fr.jpg

Beautiful card from that golden age. Howard fans understandably would chafe at him appearing in neither slot.

Philadelphia 76ers - Fleer Charles Barkley RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2067/2067-7Fr.jpg

Really wanted to pick a Dr. J card, and strongly considered an AI card, but my mind kept going back to this one. While I'm not a fan of the red-blue-white-yellow design, cannot deny the significance of the set and the shot of Barkley is fitting for what he brought to the table.

Honorable Mention - 1999-00 Fleer Force Allen Iverson

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2829/2829-709228Fr.jpg

Perfect AI card.

Phoenix Suns - 1997-98 Metal Universe Steve Nash

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2654/2654-697800Fr.jpg

I don't think it's strange to pick a Nash card, but choosing a 2nd year card over any RC is worth discussing. In a nutshell, the MU card painted the player who would eventually become the symbol of the franchise AS the symbol of the franchise long before anyone realized this is what he would become. It's an extraordinary card.

Also, I prefer the base to the PMG in this case (and in many cases for the original set).

Honorable Mention - Topps Connie Hawkins RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2012/2012-630310Fr.jpg

Where it all begins for the Suns...

Portland Trailblazers - 1976-77 Topps Bill Walton

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2026/2026-57Fr.jpg

Walton's RC would also have been a good choice, but to me oversized card from the year where Walton broke through capturing Walton's iconic play is pitch perfect.

Honorable Mention - Immaculate Damian Lillard RPA

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/84418/84418-12745729Fr.jpg

Great card, first year of Immaculate.

Sacramento Kings - Fleer Oscar Robertson RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2010/2010-630265RepFr.jpg

Seems the clear choice.

Honorable Mention - Bowman Bob Davies RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2006/2006-622238Fr.jpg

Davies was the face of the Rochester Royals during the Golden Age of this franchise. While Mikan was leading the league's best defense, Davies was leading the leagues best offense.

San Antonio Spurs - Flair Tim Duncan RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2626/2626-5Fr.jpg

Of any Timmy RC, this one feels the most appropriate. Dignified, like he is.

Honorable Mention - Hoops David Robinson RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2075/2075-138Fr.jpg

More iconic as a card than Duncan's, but Duncan has come to define the franchise so much I can only put this one second.

Toronto Raptors - SkyBox E-X Vince Carter RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2775/2775-703011Fr.jpg

The perfect card to embody the joy of those early dunking years.

Honorable Mention - 2019-20 Prizm Prizm Kyle Lowry

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Large/Basketball/221245/221245-13961242Fr.jpg

I feel like getting Lowry in the red "North" uniforms was key. The fact that I believe this shot came from the ECF where they upset the Bucks is also perfect.

Utah Jazz - Fleer John Stockton RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2071/2071-618871RepFr.jpg

Feel like I should pick a Karl Malone card, but this card screams "Utah Jazz" to me.

Honorable Mention - Fleer Karl Malone RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2067/2067-618538RepFr.jpg

Can't skip the Mailman twice.

Washington Wizards - 1972 Icee Bear Wes Unseld

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/2016/2016-630146Fr.jpg

Possibly my favorite card of the '70s, and it embodies both the era and the Golden Age Bullets from the era.

Tangent: Nobody looks more badass on cards than Wes Unseld.

Honorable Mention - Prizm Bradley Beal RC

https://www.tcdb.com/Images/Cards/Basketball/72736/72736-5285618Fr.jpg

Gotta be Beal, and this first edition Prizm card really reminds me of the entirety of the legacy of this franchise.

[Deadshot]

Some interesting choices there! I love the old ABA Pacers cards, but really hard for me not to choose a Reggie.

[JAMSC]

I don’t like including stuff like Exquisite or NT RPAs in this, or even rare inserts. Personal preference, but I think of this more as what is the most iconic base card for each team. Because to be truly iconic, I think there needs to be at least some level of accessibility too.

[Tallboy]

Some interesting choices there! I love the old ABA Pacers cards, but really hard for me not to choose a Reggie.

Understandable, think I'll add a card since I see people advocating for cards from different eras/brows.

[rats60]

Understandable, think I'll add a card since I see people advocating for cards from different eras/brows.

1972 Topps George McGinnis RC would be the ABA Pacers card.

[Tallboy]

I don’t like including stuff like Exquisite or NT RPAs in this, or even rare inserts. Personal preference, but I think of this more as what is the most iconic base card for each team. Because to be truly iconic, I think there needs to be at least some level of accessibility too.

Understandable perspective.

I think what I'd say is that prior to the internet it was literally impossible to make something brand new, super-rare, and iconic, but when I look at what something like what PMGs have become now in an internet-dominated hobby, I can't say that "iconic" isn't a fitting attribute for them - I mean, UD wouldn't be making Metal Universe sets in hockey still without the PMGs.

[Tallboy]

1972 Topps George McGinnis RC would be the ABA Pacers card.

A definite candidate and I understand why others would choose McGinnis. Pacers were winning chips before McGinnis though.

[wiper]

@tallboy, epic post sir. thanks

[jazz1232dc]

I know the obvious choice for the Jazz is the 86 Malone Fleer, but as a Jazz fan and collector the 84-85 Stockton Star card is more iconic imo

[discodanman45]

I don’t like including stuff like Exquisite or NT RPAs in this, or even rare inserts. Personal preference, but I think of this more as what is the most iconic base card for each team. Because to be truly iconic, I think there needs to be at least some level of accessibility too.

I 100% agree with this. I think iconic rookie cards need to be available. Even the 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr is his iconic rookie with millions of copies out there. This is why I don't like current parallel's of rookie cards. That stamped number makes certain versions unobtainable for most collectors.

For the Pacers rookie I am completely torn on which one to pick. Last year I would have said Reggie 100%, but the 1972 Topps set has really grown on me. I value each of these cards exactly the same. It is a tie IMO!

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51415673246_b01742590d_w.jpghttps://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51423119050_3994b77c11_w.jpg

[Deadshot]

I think the 71 Roger Brown could be a candidate, too, but neither of them are topping the Reggie.

[hauntedcomputer]

Is there a Dr J Nets ABA card? If so that's way more iconic. Oh NBA.. Not sure if there's some Nets NBA finals jerseys or not.
.

I consider this the most iconic card of the 70s.

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/C6oAAOSwuoVg9vmZ/s-l1600.jpg

Tangent: Nobody looks more badass on cards than Wes Unseld.

Mid-late 70s Topps photographer was based in DC which is why you see a ton of Unseld's fat butt on other people's cards.
This is my fave:
https://d1w8cc2yygc27j.cloudfront.net/-1052190676161300324/4813586107311495285.jpg

While most of Jordan's Star cards are visually dull, this one is iconic:

https://vintagecardprices.com/pics/18780/452458.jpg

[rustywest]

This was/is a really nice little project - Enjoyed it.

Is there a video of the West cards?

[Deadshot]

This was/is a really nice little project - Enjoyed it.

Is there a video of the West cards?

https://youtu.be/jaIu4HJbc8Y

[Tallboy]

Edit to remove duplicate. See my post on the last page for all the new additions.

[Tallboy]

@tallboy, epic post sir. thanks

Thank you for the kind words - and I've added more since! :)

[Tallboy]

I think the 71 Roger Brown could be a candidate, too, but neither of them are topping the Reggie.

Agreed. I'd actually pick either the Daniels or the Brown before I picked the McGinnis.

[Tallboy]

Got around to listening to the Wax Museum episodes. Fun to learn from in general.

I think definitely when I made my post with cards I took more liberties based on personal preferences, and I appreciate that Deadshot didn't let the podcast go that way.

I will say: I found myself reflecting philosophically on two main things.

1. Too much focus on rookie cards. Now, my list had a lot of rookies too so I'm not saying mine was "better" per se, but I just don't like it. RC's are often the most iconic card because of how the hobby works, but I wish from a franchise perspective this weren't so.

I really wish we as a hobby were more drawn to singular events rather than just first events. (And I'll note that sophisticated collectors like Deadshot clearly do value these singular events, but when trying to get in the mind of the collecting masses, I think everyone feels a strong pull toward the RC.)

To name one card that comes to mind - sorry to be negative - hearing Brook Lopez' rookie called out in consideration for the most iconic Nets card just seems wrong to me, even though it might literally be the Nets card that card collectors can picture best. Just because you were a rookie who got some hobby love at the time with admirable play doesn't mean you matter now to that franchise.

2. I find it intriguing - and inherently subjective - how to factor in a card's specific importance to one point in time with its iconic value now and in the future.

Signature card here for me is David Robinson's Hoops rookie. If you're talking about the most influential cards of all time, that has to be high on the list. But the combination of it being produced beyond saturation and Robinson falling short as the kind of sporting icon he was initially presented as (despite being an all-time great player I'll add, as a player Robinson > Iverson, but as a popular icon in 2020, the same hasn't held true), is going to mean that the further we go into the future, the less significant that card is likely to seem to collectors of that time.

[Tallboy]

I consider this the most iconic card of the 70s.

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/C6oAAOSwuoVg9vmZ/s-l1600.jpg

Tangent: Nobody looks more badass on cards than Wes Unseld.

Mid-late 70s Topps photographer was based in DC which is why you see a ton of Unseld's fat butt on other people's cards.
This is my fave:
https://d1w8cc2yygc27j.cloudfront.net/-1052190676161300324/4813586107311495285.jpg

While most of Jordan's Star cards are visually dull, this one is iconic:

https://vintagecardprices.com/pics/18780/452458.jpg

Wanted to say that these are awesome cards.

I think Erving doing his thing as a Net over the Kentucky Colonel trio makes it hold a special place in my heard.

I do enjoy the Unseld card too - like I say, I don't think anyone's cards so reliably strike me as badass the way Unseld's early cards do.

The Jordan card is beautiful and I think it's great to raise the question of whether Star cards need to get more attention than they do.

Honestly, the way I tend to look at '86-87 Fleer is as a textbook example of how you can unthinkingly put out a crappy product and if your timing is right, the crappiness actually makes it more iconic - a bit how we come to love our football team's colors not in spite of how silly they look, but because of how silly they look. (Packer fan here by the way.)

Now, I don't want to be too mean toward '86-87 Fleer because I do think the Jordan photo is a good one, and better than almost everything Star made previously - shout out to the card above.

But in general, I don't think the Fleer photography was that amazing, the card quality wasn't particularly high, the design adds nothing to the motion captured by the photography, and they do nothing to incorporate team colors (I'm a fan of the '88-89 design), and they didn't even think about the ordering of their set.

And yet, possibly the most iconic set in basketball card history when it wasn't even the first to capture the players it claims as RCs.

Remarkable.

[Deadshot]

Got around to listening to the Wax Museum episodes. Fun to learn from in general.

I think definitely when I made my post with cards I took more liberties based on personal preferences, and I appreciate that Deadshot didn't let the podcast go that way.

I will say: I found myself reflecting philosophically on two main things.

1. Too much focus on rookie cards. Now, my list had a lot of rookies too so I'm not saying mine was "better" per se, but I just don't like it. RC's are often the most iconic card because of how the hobby works, but I wish from a franchise perspective this weren't so.

I really wish we as a hobby were more drawn to singular events rather than just first events. (And I'll note that sophisticated collectors like Deadshot clearly do value these singular events, but when trying to get in the mind of the collecting masses, I think everyone feels a strong pull toward the RC.)

To name one card that comes to mind - sorry to be negative - hearing Brook Lopez' rookie called out in consideration for the most iconic Nets card just seems wrong to me, even though it might literally be the Nets card that card collectors can picture best. Just because you were a rookie who got some hobby love at the time with admirable play doesn't mean you matter now to that franchise.

2. I find it intriguing - and inherently subjective - how to factor in a card's specific importance to one point in time with its iconic value now and in the future.

Signature card here for me is David Robinson's Hoops rookie. If you're talking about the most influential cards of all time, that has to be high on the list. But the combination of it being produced beyond saturation and Robinson falling short as the kind of sporting icon he was initially presented as (despite being an all-time great player I'll add, as a player Robinson > Iverson, but as a popular icon in 2020, the same hasn't held true), is going to mean that the further we go into the future, the less significant that card is likely to seem to collectors of that time.

I appreciate you listening to the episodes and providing some feedback. A lot of my collection reflects events in history, but I think manufacturers could do a lot better job of commemorating specific moments. The problem is, if they don't do it right after it happens, it doesn't seem as important. I particularly liked Steve's pick of the Lillard One and One auto, because it was produced in a relatively short timeframe after the shot happened. Another big one would be the Kawhi shot over Philly. I still don't think either of those cards is the most iconic for their franchises though.

Similarly, there have been a few cards that have caught on lately linked to events. Here's an example of a Kobe, but I still wouldn't put it above the Mikan or the Bird/Magic rookie:

https://www.comc.com/Cards/Basketball/2000-01/Fleer_Ultra_-_Base/10/Kobe_Bryant/1548032

The big thing to remember about lists like this is that they're completely subjective. I didn't agree with the Lopez pick, and I'd argue against it, but it was Steve's pick. He at least made me think about it, because that card didn't even cross my mind. All in all, it's a fun little exercise. Several people have suggested changing the parameters a little bit. That could be a fun direction to take this in the near future, and I'd encourage anyone to start that up that would like to.

[Tallboy]

I appreciate you listening to the episodes and providing some feedback. A lot of my collection reflects events in history, but I think manufacturers could do a lot better job of commemorating specific moments. The problem is, if they don't do it right after it happens, it doesn't seem as important. I particularly liked Steve's pick of the Lillard One and One auto, because it was produced in a relatively short timeframe after the shot happened. Another big one would be the Kawhi shot over Philly. I still don't think either of those cards is the most iconic for their franchises though.

Similarly, there have been a few cards that have caught on lately linked to events. Here's an example of a Kobe, but I still wouldn't put it above the Mikan or the Bird/Magic rookie:

https://www.comc.com/Cards/Basketball/2000-01/Fleer_Ultra_-_Base/10/Kobe_Bryant/1548032

The big thing to remember about lists like this is that they're completely subjective. I didn't agree with the Lopez pick, and I'd argue against it, but it was Steve's pick. He at least made me think about it, because that card didn't even cross my mind. All in all, it's a fun little exercise. Several people have suggested changing the parameters a little bit. That could be a fun direction to take this in the near future, and I'd encourage anyone to start that up that would like to.

Biggest thing I want to say is that I applaud you both for putting yourself out there, and it was never going to be a perfect thing.

Re: cards not capturing moments. It really bothers me. If I google "Wade LeBron dunk", the search engine knows exactly what moment I'm thinking of:

https://www.sun-sentinel.com/resizer/0Mpwg34fuHw7oeMGCUK7S363N3g=/800x450/top/www.trbimg.com/img-5b03605d/turbine/fl-1526947929-duio864w54-snap-image

Yet, as far as I know, this never made it on to a card.

Why wasn't this a priority for Panini?

To me, honestly, it smacks of collectors not actually caring much about what's actually on the card, what matters is a) player associated, b) brand, c) year, d) scarcity, e) adornments.

I wish it were otherwise, and I really cherish the time when I see an image on a card that actually gives me chills.

(And yeah, shout out to the One and One card mentioned, as well as some of the other photography focus I've seen recently - Luminance - but I'd like to see much more of this.)

Anyway, thanks for the work you do, and thanks for chatting!