Scalpers Are in TROUBLE… Topps Is Selling Boxes UNSEALED

Scalpers Are in TROUBLE… Topps Is Selling Boxes UNSEALED

July 9, 2026 · 39 min

About this episode

The episode discusses Topps' new strategy of shipping unsealed boxes to combat scalpers and other significant developments in the sports card hobby.

Topps is changing the sports card game forever by shipping UNSEALED boxes to combat scalpers—but is it actually going to work? Welcome back to Cards on the Table, and today we are breaking down the biggest market-shifting headlines hitting the hobby this week! First up, Topps has dropped a bombshell announcement: factory plastic wrap is being completely removed from upcoming Topps Chrome Update Basketball Mega Boxes to discourage immediate resale by scalpers. We debate whether this unsealed strategy protects collectors or completely destroys product value. Next, the highly anticipated checklist for the first-ever NBA Rookie Debut Patch Autographs (RDPAs) is finally here! With Fanatics officially running the NBA license, the chase is on for Cooper Flagg, Ace Bailey, and Dylan Harper grails. We look at who will have the most coveted patch outside of Flagg and how the non-auto versions will hold up. Plus, Michael Jordan just signed a massive "legacy partner" deal with Upper Deck that includes putting 23 autographed, factory-sealed 1986 Fleer Basketball packs into 2026 Goodwin Champions! We react to this legendary partnership and what it means for Upper Deck’s future. Finally, we…

People in this episode

Host: Sports Card Investor

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Topps, Fanatics, Upper Deck

Products: Topps Chrome Update Basketball Mega Boxes, NBA Rookie Debut Patch Autographs (RDPAs), 1986 Fleer Basketball packs

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