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Are NBA Players Equally Valued by Team Owners and Trading Card Collectors?

Author

Listed:
  • Tyler Horn

    (Iowa State University)

  • Levi Soborowicz

    (Iowa State University)

  • Rashad Dixon

    (University of Texas)

  • Peter F. Orazem

    (Iowa State University)

Abstract

This study compares the relationship between National Basketball Association player career performances and their market values as revealed by their rookie card prices and their career salaries. This permits a novel identification of the similarities and differences between card collectors and team owners in how they value the same sample of 185 players. The analysis includes all players who began their careers in 1993 or after and completed their careers by 2019, and who renegotiated their rookie contract so that their card price and salary values are based on their National Basketball Association performances. Offensive statistics largely determine a player's salary and card value. Team owners place greater value on team attributes such as tenure with the team and games started, while card collectors place greater relative value on individual performance.

Suggested Citation

  • Tyler Horn & Levi Soborowicz & Rashad Dixon & Peter F. Orazem, 2024. "Are NBA Players Equally Valued by Team Owners and Trading Card Collectors?," Atlantic Economic Journal, Springer;International Atlantic Economic Society, vol. 52(2), pages 103-116, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:atlecj:v:52:y:2024:i:2:d:10.1007_s11293-024-09798-9
    DOI: 10.1007/s11293-024-09798-9
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    References listed on IDEAS

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