How 81 Parallels in 2024-25 Prizm Basketball Has Killed the Rainbow

Panini’s Parallel Problem

The sports card hobby thrives on scarcity, chase elements, and collector engagement, while also feeding the pack-breaking culture. But Panini’s latest approach to parallels, specifically in the 2024-25 Prizm Basketball release, has officially taken things to an absurd level. With a staggering 81 parallels for the base set, Panini has jumped the shark.

More Isn’t Better

Collectors have long embraced parallels as a fun challenge, especially when completing a rainbow, a full set of every color and serial-numbered version of a player’s card from a specific set. But when that rainbow balloons to 81 different versions, including:

• Three - 1/1

• Three - #/5

• Four - #/8

• Six - #/10

…it’s clear that Panini isn’t designing for collectors anymore. Instead, this overkill caters to breakers and high-volume rip-and-flip operations, flooding the market with variations nobody truly wants to chase.

Collectors Are Checking Out

Let’s be real, no one is collecting all 81 parallels of a single player. The excitement of rainbow collecting was in the challenge of assembling a unique and complete set. But when a rainbow becomes a cash grab with endless variations, it loses all appeal.

Instead of adding value, Panini’s overproduction is diluting the brand. The sheer volume of parallels makes each one feel less special. It’s no longer about the thrill of pulling a rare color variation, it’s about wondering whether the one you pulled even matters.

The Gig Is Up

Meanwhile, Topps is taking a different approach, streamlining its 2025 parallel structure in flagship and Chrome products. While still offering chase elements, they are at least making an effort to consolidate and simplify across product lines.

Panini, on the other hand, seems to have greenlit every good and bad idea their team pitched. The result? A chaotic mess that alienates set builders, player collectors, and anyone who values quality over quantity.

What’s Next?