A collector paid $312,000 for Jalen Brunson’s 1‑of‑1 numbered 2018 Panini Prizm Choice Nebula rookie card at a Fanatics Collect auction on June 22, the day after Brunson secured the NBA Finals MVP as the New York Knicks captured their first championship in 53 years. The buyer, who remains anonymous, cited the card’s unique serial and Brunson’s run as justification, shattering the prior $96,660 record.

Brunson’s postseason performance cemented his market surge. He averaged 9.9 points in the fourth quarter throughout the playoffs, a rate matched only by Dirk Nowitzki in 2011, while shooting 56% from the field, 53% from three and 91% from the line in the final period. His clutch scoring helped New York clinch the series in six games, reinforcing the card’s premium.

Card‑market data from Card Ladder shows Brunson’s hobby value jumped 131.9% month‑over‑month, outpacing every other major‑sport athlete; San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama trailed at 89.73%. Fourteen Brunson cards sold for $30,000 or more in June, three exceeding $99,000, confirming collectors view him as the Knicks’ all‑time great. The surge reflects growing belief that Brunson could redefine the franchise’s future.