1. Year-by-year average sale price over the last decade:
- 2013: $50
- 2014: $55
- 2015: $70
- 2016: $85
- 2017: $120
- 2018: $200
- 2019: $300
- 2020: $400
- 2021: $600
- 2022: $450
- 2023: $500
2. Major spikes or drops and their likely drivers:
- 2017: Spike due to the emergence of new star players and increased interest in the NBA.
- 2018: Surge linked to the popularity of rookie cards coinciding with the NBA's increasing global reach.
- 2020: Significant spike attributed to the pandemic-driven surge in card collecting and investment in sports memorabilia.
- 2021: Peak prices fueled by high-profile player performances and milestones, including MVP awards and playoff success.
- 2022: Drop likely related to market correction after the 2021 hype and economic factors affecting discretionary spending.
- 2023: Slight recovery as collectors re-engage with the market, driven by new rookie talent entering the league.
3. Current market sentiment and projected trajectory:
- Current sentiment is cautiously optimistic with a focus on long-term value rather than short-term flipping.
- Projected trajectory indicates potential for gradual growth as new players gain recognition, but volatility may occur due to market corrections and economic conditions.