As of late, the sports card market has EXPLODED, to say the least. People from all different backgrounds and professions are getting into the hobby. Retired MLB players such as Phil Hughes, Pat Neshek, and Tyler Wagner have all been very involved in the hobby.
Panini and Topps are the two main leaders in the hobby with Topps specializing in baseball cards with their MLB license while Panini has a license with NFL and the NBA. The two main authentication companies better known as “grading” companies consist of Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). The condition with sports cards are everything and can increase a card by hundreds of dollars.
Today I interviewed Michael Vinokur, the owner of sneaker store Sneak Peek Luxury in Miami, Florida, and the owner of Pullwax. PullWax brings a fresh eye to the sports card industry.
Q: Tell me a little about yourself and your background and how you got into the card industry?
A: I’ve been collecting cards since I’ve was 8 years old. My dad and I built a strong bond through sports and was a die-hard fan of baseball, basketball, and football as a kid, I also played all types of sports. I got back heavy into the hobby about 6 months ago. I ordered a box of cards 18 months ago and started feeding my itch, but I really got into the business side 6 months ago.
Q: What do you think of the current card market? Do you think cards could become a cultural phenomenon once again?
A: Yes, I think they are about to get there, the hobby is rapidly growing and sales are exploding.
Q: What are some cards and players you are currently investing in?
A. Football- Daniel Jones
Basketball – Kevin Porter Jr.
MLB (Prospects) – Jose Devers
Q: What would you recommend to a new collector?
A: Do your research before you go crazy spending money. Education and knowledge are key before you splurge.
Q: Where can we find you? (Link all your social media accounts, websites, etc.)
A: @michaelavinokur is my personal Instagram, @pullwax on Instagram, Twitter, Instagram, and the PullWax Facebook group with over 1,000 current members and at Pullwax.com.
Thanks for doing this for me Michael! Make sure you check out PullWax so you can get started in the hobby today!
Photo Credit: Beckett
