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Kevin O'Leary Showcases $12.9M NBA Card at Oscars

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Kevin O'Leary, entrepreneur and 'Shark Tank' star, wore the 2004 Upper Deck Exquisite All NBA Access Pass, Triple Logoman, at 98th Academy Awards.
Card features patches from Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant.
It was displayed in a custom Tiffany & Co. case weighing 2.2 pounds of white gold with diamonds and rubies.
O'Leary purchased the card for $12.9 million in 2025, signaling a trend in high-value memorabilia.

History

Historical Context

In 2004, Upper Deck launched the Exquisite Collection, transforming sports memorabilia with premium trading cards featuring legends like Michael Jordan and LeBron James. This innovation followed Upper Deck's rise since its founding in 1988, which revolutionized the trading card industry. Kevin O'Leary's $12.9 million card purchase underscores the booming market for luxury collectibles, reflecting a cultural shift towards valuing sports history.

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Story summary

Kevin O'Leary, entrepreneur and 'Shark Tank' star, wore the 2004 Upper Deck Exquisite All NBA Access Pass, Triple Logoman, at 98th Academy Awards.
Card features patches from Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant.
It was displayed in a custom Tiffany & Co. case weighing 2.2 pounds of white gold with diamonds and rubies.
O'Leary purchased the card for $12.9 million in 2025, signaling a trend in high-value memorabilia.

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