Cajun Cardboard – NBA Card Insights, Collecting Guides, and Official Merch

From Bryan Denison, 9:41 AM

Where should I start collecting if I’m new?

Start where you feel comfortable! Whether that’s 90s Michael Jordan inserts and parallels (my personal favorite), affordable base cards, or even specific years like the 80s or 90s, there’s a path for every collector. Focus on what excites you and fits your budget.

What’s the difference between base cards, inserts, and parallels?

Base cards are the standard cards in a set checklist. Inserts are unique cards inserted randomly into packs, usually featuring unique designs or themes. Inserts have their own separate checklist distinct from the base checklist. Parallels are cards that look like base cards but have distinct features, like different colors, patterns or serial numbering, making them scarcer and often more desirable.

Are graded cards better to buy than raw cards?

Graded cards provide authentication and give you a sense of condition, usually making them safer buys. Raw cards can be less expensive but require knowledge to spot fakes and assess condition. If you’re new, leaning toward graded cards—especially from trusted graders like PSA or BGS—can reduce risk.

What does “greening” mean and why should I care?

“Greening” is a condition issue where cards, especially from the 90s, develop green discoloration over time, sometimes even inside the slab. It affects value and appeal, so when buying graded cards from those sets, make sure to check for greening.

How important is card grading and what grades should I focus on?

Grading helps classify the card’s condition and impacts value. Many collectors target PSA 9, BGS 8.5 or 9.5 as sweet spots — good condition but a bit more affordable than PSA 10s. If you want top-tier quality and are ready to invest more, PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 (especially “quads” with high subgrades) are great.

What are serial numbered cards and why do they matter?

Serial numbered cards have a limit on how many were produced, often printed on the card itself. Fewer copies usually mean higher rarity and value. Collectors love these cards because you know exactly how scarce they are.

Should I focus on collecting only one player?

Many people start with a favorite player like Michael Jordan — it helps focus your collection and builds a deep appreciation. However, the hobby is flexible. You can collect based on teams, specific eras, or card types. The main thing is collecting what excites you.

How can I avoid fakes and counterfeits?

Always buy from reputable sources, preferably graded cards from trusted companies (PSA, BGS). When buying raw cards, educate yourself on common fakes, or consult experts or collectors who know the player and card well. Never be shy about asking for a second opinion.

How can I make my collection grow without breaking the bank?

Focus on affordable niches like low-grade inserts or base cards, rookie cards from less expensive years, or even raw cards if you’re willing to learn. Also, look for deals on social media, auctions, or consider subsets like stickers or foreign cards. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and learn as you go!

From Bryan Denison, 9:41 AM

Where should I start collecting if I’m new?

Start where you feel comfortable! Whether that’s 90s Michael Jordan inserts and parallels (my personal favorite), affordable base cards, or even specific years like the 80s or 90s, there’s a path for every collector. Focus on what excites you and fits your budget.

What’s the difference between base cards, inserts, and parallels?

Base cards are the standard cards in a set checklist. Inserts are unique cards inserted randomly into packs, usually featuring unique designs or themes. Inserts have their own separate checklist distinct from the base checklist. Parallels are cards that look like base cards but have distinct features, like different colors, patterns or serial numbering, making them scarcer and often more desirable.

Are graded cards better to buy than raw cards?

Graded cards provide authentication and give you a sense of condition, usually making them safer buys. Raw cards can be less expensive but require knowledge to spot fakes and assess condition. If you’re new, leaning toward graded cards—especially from trusted graders like PSA or BGS—can reduce risk.

What does “greening” mean and why should I care?

“Greening” is a condition issue where cards, especially from the 90s, develop green discoloration over time, sometimes even inside the slab. It affects value and appeal, so when buying graded cards from those sets, make sure to check for greening.

How important is card grading and what grades should I focus on?

Grading helps classify the card’s condition and impacts value. Many collectors target PSA 9, BGS 8.5 or 9.5 as sweet spots — good condition but a bit more affordable than PSA 10s. If you want top-tier quality and are ready to invest more, PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 (especially “quads” with high subgrades) are great.

What are serial numbered cards and why do they matter?

Serial numbered cards have a limit on how many were produced, often printed on the card itself. Fewer copies usually mean higher rarity and value. Collectors love these cards because you know exactly how scarce they are.

Should I focus on collecting only one player?

Many people start with a favorite player like Michael Jordan — it helps focus your collection and builds a deep appreciation. However, the hobby is flexible. You can collect based on teams, specific eras, or card types. The main thing is collecting what excites you.

How can I avoid fakes and counterfeits?

Always buy from reputable sources, preferably graded cards from trusted companies (PSA, BGS). When buying raw cards, educate yourself on common fakes, or consult experts or collectors who know the player and card well. Never be shy about asking for a second opinion.

How can I make my collection grow without breaking the bank?

Focus on affordable niches like low-grade inserts or base cards, rookie cards from less expensive years, or even raw cards if you’re willing to learn. Also, look for deals on social media, auctions, or consider subsets like stickers or foreign cards. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and learn as you go!

From Bryan Denison, 9:41 AM

Where should I start collecting if I’m new?

Start where you feel comfortable! Whether that’s 90s Michael Jordan inserts and parallels (my personal favorite), affordable base cards, or even specific years like the 80s or 90s, there’s a path for every collector. Focus on what excites you and fits your budget.

What’s the difference between base cards, inserts, and parallels?

Base cards are the standard cards in a set checklist. Inserts are unique cards inserted randomly into packs, usually featuring unique designs or themes. Inserts have their own separate checklist distinct from the base checklist. Parallels are cards that look like base cards but have distinct features, like different colors, patterns or serial numbering, making them scarcer and often more desirable.

Are graded cards better to buy than raw cards?

Graded cards provide authentication and give you a sense of condition, usually making them safer buys. Raw cards can be less expensive but require knowledge to spot fakes and assess condition. If you’re new, leaning toward graded cards—especially from trusted graders like PSA or BGS—can reduce risk.

What does “greening” mean and why should I care?

“Greening” is a condition issue where cards, especially from the 90s, develop green discoloration over time, sometimes even inside the slab. It affects value and appeal, so when buying graded cards from those sets, make sure to check for greening.

How important is card grading and what grades should I focus on?

Grading helps classify the card’s condition and impacts value. Many collectors target PSA 9, BGS 8.5 or 9.5 as sweet spots — good condition but a bit more affordable than PSA 10s. If you want top-tier quality and are ready to invest more, PSA 10 or BGS 9.5 (especially “quads” with high subgrades) are great.

What are serial numbered cards and why do they matter?

Serial numbered cards have a limit on how many were produced, often printed on the card itself. Fewer copies usually mean higher rarity and value. Collectors love these cards because you know exactly how scarce they are.

Should I focus on collecting only one player?

Many people start with a favorite player like Michael Jordan — it helps focus your collection and builds a deep appreciation. However, the hobby is flexible. You can collect based on teams, specific eras, or card types. The main thing is collecting what excites you.

How can I avoid fakes and counterfeits?

Always buy from reputable sources, preferably graded cards from trusted companies (PSA, BGS). When buying raw cards, educate yourself on common fakes, or consult experts or collectors who know the player and card well. Never be shy about asking for a second opinion.

How can I make my collection grow without breaking the bank?

Focus on affordable niches like low-grade inserts or base cards, rookie cards from less expensive years, or even raw cards if you’re willing to learn. Also, look for deals on social media, auctions, or consider subsets like stickers or foreign cards. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and learn as you go!

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Start Where You Are: Your Hobby, Your Rules

Understand the Game: Demand, Rarity, and Aesthetics

Dive Into Niches and Levels That Suit Your Style

Protect Your Passion: Smart Buying and Learning

Collect With a Plan, But Keep It Fun

Common Questions I Get Asked

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