Fanatics CEO gave fans a celebratory moment upon receiving a limited edition Topps card with King James and his son, Bronny’s signature.

It was a revolution across the trading card industry when King James and his elder son got on board with the exclusive trading card deal with the organization. Both would now appear on autographed 1-of-1 cards. It may be assumed that it would add to their individual NIL and enhance familial bonds, but as it turns out, Bryce’s NIL is dropping still!

Bryce James is witnessing a major decline in his NIL value. By any means, it is not a small number! His 2.4K decline comes despite him being one of the most valued high-school athletes on the entire list, with an NIL value of approximately $1.2 million. When last accessed around New Year’s time, the decline was already at 2K.

Bryce’s NIL value is more than highly touted basketball prospects like Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper. On 12th December 2022, Bryce signed a NIL contract with Klutch Sports, which is owned by LeBron’s close friend and agent, Rich Paul. In fact, back in August 2023, according to Bleacher Report, his valuation stood at 13th among all college or high school athletes, thanks in large part to his association with his father.

via Imago

Bryce ranks as the 17th most valued college or high-school athlete. However, it is his brother, Bronny, who leads the list, with a NIL value of $5.2 million. However, many scouts believe that Bryce is a better prospect than his older brother. The 16-year-old already has scholarship offers from prestigious colleges like Duke, Kentucky, North Carolina, and Kansas. The hype generated around Bryce would certainly increase his NIL value once he commits to a college. However, he will be disappointed about the fact that he couldn’t collaborate with his brother and father on the Fanatics project.

LeBron’s multi-year contract with Fanatics

Fanatics, a sports merchandising company, is valued at a mind-boggling $31 billion after it raised approximately $700 million in December 2022. The company took another massive step in the right direction, as they have signed a multi-year contract with NBA superstar, LeBron James. The agreement gives Fanatics a chance to capitalize on LeBron’s illustrious career, and their impact could increase tenfold once LeBron retires.

In a statement released by LeBron after agreeing to the deal, LeBron said, “As someone who appreciates all the moments — big and small — along the journey, I’m excited to share more with my fans through this partnership with Fanatics.” Apart from getting LeBron on board, Fanatics will also replace Panini as the NBA’s official partner from 2026.