Isiah Thomas
Date of Birth: 4/20/1961
Rookie Card Year: 1986-87
Investment Rating: 7.0
Isiah Thomas was one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and still managed considerable success despite paying in a period that was largely dominated by Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan. His competitive nature as a player, off-court issues, and coaching and executive stints have hurt his legacy somewhat, but Isiah Thomas rookie cards and memorabilia remain popular with collectors.
From a collecting standpoint, Isiah Thomas did not debut in the ideal period. His rookie season in 1981-82 was the final year for Topps Basketball products for many years and the start of a lean period in basketball card collecting. Since Thomas was not included in 1981-82 Topps, his first NBA card was not available until 1983-84 Star. Although it is not considered his true rookie card by many collectors, this early Isiah Thomas card is a popular option. Thomas would have multiple cards courtesy of Star over the next few years, including various inserts. It was not until his sixth season in 1986-87 Fleer that his "official rookie card" was available to collectors.
From that point on, collectors have the normal assortment of options for Isiah Thomas until his final season in 1993-94. He was inconsistently featured in products for the next decade or so until things picked up again in 2004-05. Thomas has been a regular inclusion in basketball products since then and has been a signer for both Upper Deck and Panini sets.
Isiah Thomas Rookie Cards Checklist
1983-84 Star Isiah Thomas #94
The earliest card available, 1983-84 Star holds a special place for many collectors. The simple all-white design allows Thomas to be the primary focus of the card.
1984-85 Star Isiah Thomas #287
Sporting a crowded image, the live-action shot in 1984-85 Star offers a candid look at the game and an inexpensive early card for Isiah Thomas.
1985-86 Star Isiah Thomas #10
The all-white border of 1985-86 Star carries a similar look to Thomas' first Star card. However, the logo for the Detroit Pistons was inadvertently left off, leaving a blank circle.
1986-87 Fleer Isiah Thomas RC #109
Released several years after his first NBA card, 1986-87 Fleer still holds the distinction as the official Isiah Thomas rookie card and several other Hall of Fame players. While the design is now part of hobby legend, Michael Jordan's card receives most of the focus and value. This means that rookie cards for most of the other players, including Thomas, can be found for budget prices.
1986-87 Fleer Stickers Isiah Thomas #10
A nice alternative if you are looking for something other than a traditional card, the sticker insert card from 1986-87 Fleer has a more classic design and a larger image of Thomas.
 |
Making purchases through affiliate links can earn the site a commission |
