The Olympics are more than just a sporting event; they are a global phenomenon that has the power to ignite interest and excitement, not only in the world of sports but also in the realm of collectibles. The diverse nature of the Olympics, the way they bring together fans from various sports, and the ability to captivate even non-sports enthusiasts make them a potent force in driving demand for memorabilia and collectibles.
For instance, consider the impact of the recent Tokyo Olympics on basketball. The men’s gold-medal game between the U.S. and France drew a significant audience of 19.5 million viewers in the U.S. alone, surpassing the viewership of the NBA Finals. Similarly, the women’s gold-medal game garnered 7.8 million viewers, showcasing the broad appeal and reach of the Olympics.
Athletes (and rappers) who became collector favorites
During the 2024 Olympics, several Team USA basketball players saw a surge in interest among collectors on eBay. Icons like LeBron James and Steph Curry were highly sought after, but the rise in searches for players like Anthony Edwards indicated a growing interest in emerging talents.
Notable moments during the Olympics, such as Edwards’ performances, influenced the prices of his cards, indicating how athletes’ on-field success can translate into collectible value. The same trend was observed among the women’s basketball team, with players like Sabrina Ionescu and Diana Taurasi attracting considerable attention.
The Olympics also had a significant impact on women’s sports collectibles. Athletes like Katie Ledecky and Simone Biles saw a spike in sales, with unique items like autographed cards reaching record prices.
Industry Insights
According to Adam Ireland, the Vice President of eBay’s collectibles division, the Olympics showcased the diverse range of collectibles that have gained traction in recent years. From trading cards to vintage merchandise, various categories have witnessed a surge in popularity among collectors.
Notable figures like Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz experienced increased searches on eBay following their Olympic success, highlighting the crossover appeal and wider audience the event attracts.
The rise of non-traditional collectibles, such as Snoop Dogg’s custom pins, underscores the evolving landscape of the hobby. Shows like “King of Collectibles: The Goldin Touch” on Netflix have also played a role in increasing interest and accessibility to the world of collectibles.
As the Olympic fervor subsides, the legacy of athletes and the memorabilia associated with these games continue to hold value and significance, offering collectors a unique opportunity to connect with sporting history in tangible ways.
(Top photo: Harry Langer/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
