CARLSBAD, CA (July 8, 2026) – In 1992, Upper Deck launched an anonymous marketing campaign with a Chicago billboard that read “Trade Jordan,” rocking the sports world as basketball fans speculated about the absurd idea of a possible swap involving #23. The billboard was later replaced with imagery of Michael Jordan Upper Deck trading cards, boldly promoting the then-two-time NBA champion’s new licensing agreement with Upper Deck, making him the company’s first exclusive basketball spokesperson and granting Upper Deck exclusive rights to produce his authenticated, autographed collectibles.
Today, Upper Deck launched a campaign that is a nod to the initial ‘Trade Jordan’ rollout, but with the opposite message: “You Don’t Trade Greatness, You Keep it for a Lifetime,” announcing the expansion of the relationship and naming Michael Jordan as Upper Deck’s first Legacy Partner.
To commemorate this monumental milestone, Upper Deck has developed two unique programs:
(1) 23 factory-sealed packs from the coveted 1986-87 Fleer Basketball trading card set (where Michael Jordan’s iconic rookie card may be found) have been acquired through a buyback program, and each pack is autographed by Michael Jordan, with one pack featuring a 1-of-1 inscription “Rookie Pack,” then all inserted into a new trading card set—the 2026 Goodwin Champions.
(2) Upper Deck has collaborated with eBay to auction a one-of-a-kind full box of 1986-87 Fleer Basketball that features Jordan’s exclusive autograph, and a similar inscription “Rookie Card Box,” connecting the two programs. Ten percent of the auction proceeds will benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
“We are honored that Michael Jordan continues to choose Upper Deck as his partner. For more than three decades we’ve worked with Michael to fundamentally change the collectibles industry. We bring the most sought-after trading cards and memorabilia to fans around the world as the only pieces guaranteed to feature his authentic autograph,” said Jason Masherah, President of Upper Deck.
“I’m proud to be Upper Deck’s first Legacy Partner. For more than 30 years, this partnership has been about creating something different – cards and memorabilia collectors can’t find anywhere else. I’m looking forward to what comes next,” said Michael Jordan.
This historical partnership has shaped the sports memorabilia landscape since the original exclusive agreement between Upper Deck and Michael Jordan in 1991 and continues to evolve, including ever-growing commitment to combat counterfeit collectibles and to protect the authenticity of Michael Jordan’s autograph.
The campaign “You Don’t Trade Greatness, You Keep it for a Lifetime,” contains multiple unique meanings. Michael Jordan collectibles are about more than trading and selling; they are about creating connections, forming identities and sharing the passion of these collectibles with generations to come. It also reflects the historical data that Michael Jordan collectibles have become more and more treasured because of Upper Deck’s commitment to protecting the exclusivity and authenticity, innovation and high-quality standards in its exclusive Michael Jordan products.
To learn more, please visit UpperDeck.com.
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About Upper Deck
Upper Deck is a global entertainment company creating trading cards, memorabilia, collectibles, games, and online platforms that deliver the experiences collectors crave. Upper Deck has set the unmatched industry standard for quality, authenticity, and innovation and continues to bring generations of fans closer to their favorite athletes and characters with unique and authentic sports and entertainment product offerings, as well as its digital trading ecosystem. The company prides itself on creating collectibles that produce invaluable experiences for sports and entertainment’s most dedicated and loyal fans, with a goal to deliver excellence to the community across the most coveted properties as a means to develop memorable moments for collectors of all kinds.
Find more information at www.upperdeck.com or follow us on Facebook (/UpperDeck,/UpperDeckEnt), Instagram (UpperDeckSports,UpperDeckEnt), X (formerly known as Twitter) (UpperDeckSports,UpperDeckEnt), and YouTube (UDvids).
Media Contact:
Nicole Curro, nicole@carvecomms.com
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Carlsbad, CA (June 30, 2026) – Upper Deck, the worldwide leader in sports and entertainment collectibles, is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America with an exclusive trading card set inspired by the trailblazers, iconic landmarks, and timeless symbols that embody national pride. Through the Upper Deck e-Pack platform, collectors and enthusiasts can chase presidential 1-of-1 cut signature cards alongside rare parallels and inserts showcasing historic achievements cemented across 250 years of American history.
“For generations, trading cards have preserved the people and stories that leave a lasting impact on culture and history,” said Jason Masherah, President of Upper Deck. “As America marks this milestone anniversary, we’re especially proud to honor the leaders, innovators, and defining moments that have shaped our country and continue to inspire its future.”
The 2026 Upper Deck United States 250th Anniversary set includes 50 Base Set cards spotlighting historical figures and significant events from each decade of American history. Proud Americans and collectors can uncover rare serial-numbered parallels, including “Americana,” “Glory,” “Uncle Sam” (numbered out of 299), “Independence” (numbered out of 149), “Courage” (numbered out of 99), “July 4” (numbered out of 25), and the ”Screaming Eagle” 1-of-1.
Spanning presidents, national geography, cultural icons, and memorable moments in time, the set takes collectors through a unique journey across 250 years of American history. At the center of the collecting experience are the 1-of-1 “History of the USA Cut Signatures,” featuring original signatures from some of the most recognizable leaders of the nation. Leading the checklist is an authenticated George Washington cut signature card, available exclusively as an e-Pack achievement. Also included are signatures from U.S. presidents Harry S. Truman, Lyndon B. Johnson, Jimmy Carter, and George W. Bush.
Beyond autographs, a variety of acetate and lenticular inserts spotlight the landmarks, wildlife, leaders, and emblems woven throughout the American story. From the scenic landscapes showcased in “Our Beautiful Nation” to the influential pioneers featured in “Founding Fathers” and clear-cut “Presidential Running Mates,” themed inserts celebrate the people and places that have led to what America stands for today. Lenticular “Presidential Portraits” and “History of the American Flag” insert cards further bring that legacy to life by retracing the evolution of presidential art and the nation’s most enduring symbol.
The set also incorporates tangible pieces of history through a collection of memorabilia and relic cards. “Pieces of America” cards contain authenticated material from flight suits, parachutes, and uniforms to connect collectors directly to artifacts from pivotal chapters in U.S. history. Additional relic cards are inspired by American figures and symbols, including “Betsy Ross Stitches” manufactured patch cards of the American flag numbered to 25, as well as an exclusive e-Pack achievement manufactured relic card showcasing Benjamin Franklin and the Liberty Bell.
Fans and collectors can begin collecting the 2026 Upper Deck United States 250th Anniversary set on July 2 at UpperDeckEpack.com.
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Media Contact:
Nicole Curro, nicole@carvecomms.com
About Upper Deck:
Upper Deck is a global entertainment company creating trading cards, memorabilia, collectibles, games, and online platforms that deliver the experiences collectors crave. Upper Deck has set the unmatched industry standard for quality, authenticity, and innovation, and continues to bring generations of fans closer to their favorite athletes and characters with unique and authentic sports and entertainment product offerings, as well as its digital trading ecosystem. The company prides itself on creating collectibles that produce invaluable experiences for sports and entertainment’s most dedicated and loyal fans, with a goal to deliver excellence to the community across the most coveted properties as a means to develop memorable moments for collectors of all kinds.
Find more information at www.upperdeck.com or follow us on Facebook (/UpperDeck), Instagram (UpperDeckSports), X (formerly known as Twitter) (UpperDeckSports), and YouTube (UDvids).
The post UPPER DECK CELEBRATES AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY WITH A PATRIOTIC TRADING CARD SET appeared first on Upper Deck.
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Carlsbad, CA (June 26, 2026) – Upper Deck, the worldwide leader in sports and entertainment collectibles, is proud to welcome Gavin McKenna, the first overall pick in the 2026 Upper Deck NHL Draft, to its roster. As part of the deal, Upper Deck will be the sole producer of McKenna’s NHL autographed trading cards – holding the rights to use McKenna’s name, image, likeness, and autograph on Upper Deck trading cards, including popular brands like the Upper Deck Flagship Series, SP Authentic, and O-Pee-Chee-Platinum.
At 18 years old, Gavin McKenna has already announced his arrival to the NHL even before stepping on the ice for the first time. In the 2025-26 season, the Penn State forward registered an exceptional 51 points, 15 goals, and 36 assists in 35 games. His standout freshman season earned him Big Ten Scoring Champion and Freshman of the Year honors, as well as a spot among finalists for the Hobey Baker Award. Along the way, McKenna set a new Penn State single-season record for assists and became the first player in program history to lead the conference in scoring. McKenna also recorded 14 points in seven games at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. Known for his creativity and offensive playmaking, he continues to captivate fans as he makes the jump to the professional level.
“Gavin McKenna is already setting a new standard with his record-breaking performance at Penn State. As a prospect, his combination of hustle and creativity truly sets him apart,” said Jason Masherah, President of Upper Deck. “We’re excited to welcome him to the Upper Deck roster, and can’t wait to capture and commemorate the moments that will define his career for collectors and fans around the world.”
Gavin McKenna trading cards will be available in Upper Deck flagship products, including his highly anticipated rookie cards like Young Guns®, Future Watch, and more during the 2026-27 NHL season at Certified Diamond Dealers worldwide as well as mass retailers. McKenna’s exclusive cards will also be available on Upper Deck e-Pack®, including his first NHL trading card as part of Upper Deck’s new ‘First Round Draft Cards’ program, which commemorates in real time the moment players are drafted. Players’ photos will be taken on stage as they hear their name called, and turned into a trading card that will be available on UpperDeckEPack.com shortly after they’re drafted. To stay up to date on all of McKenna’s upcoming Upper Deck trading cards, visit UpperDeck.com.
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About Upper Deck
Upper Deck is a global entertainment company creating trading cards, memorabilia, collectibles, games, and online platforms that deliver the experiences collectors crave. Upper Deck has set the unmatched industry standard for quality, authenticity, and innovation, and continues to bring generations of fans closer to their favorite athletes and characters with unique and authentic sports and entertainment product offerings, as well as its digital trading ecosystem. The company prides itself on creating collectibles that produce invaluable experiences for sports and entertainment’s most dedicated and loyal fans, with a goal to deliver excellence to the community across the most coveted properties as a means to develop memorable moments for collectors of all kinds.
Find more information at www.upperdeck.com or follow us on Facebook (/UpperDeck), Instagram (UpperDeckSports), X (formerly known as Twitter) (UpperDeckSports), and YouTube (UDvids).
Upper Deck Media Contact:
Matt Burkey, matt@carvecomms.com
NHL and the NHL Shield are registered trademarks and NHL Draft name and logo are trademarks of the National Hockey League. © 2026 NHL. All Rights Reserved.
The post UPPER DECK ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE AUTOGRAPH TRADING CARD DEAL WITH 2026 NHL FIRST OVERALL PICK GAVIN MCKENNA appeared first on Upper Deck.
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