Celebrate College Hoops’ Return with Panini NIL Instant Cards

Written by: Connor Zimmerlee

College basketball is finally back, and with it comes the return of several of the sport’s brightest stars. That excitement extends beyond the hardwood as well, with Panini Instant NIL giving you a chance to add star hoopers to your collection in fast fashion.

With the 2026-27 season officially underway, there are already multiple performances to highlight. Starting off, well, strong, is none other than Sarah Strong herself. The reigning AP Player of the Year began her quest to repeat by posting with 19 points and eight steals in a 100-35 season-opening rout.

Also showing out on the women’s side of things, McKenna Woliczko chipped in 10 points and eight boards in a 73-45 win, Jerzy Robinson provided 15 points in her debut, and ZaKiyah Johnson dropped a monstrous double-double with 33 points and 13 boards in a blowout victory.

Shifting gears and heading to the men’s side, Alijah Arenas made sure his team started its season 1-0. His performance led to a 95-63 romp, as he poured in 21 points to go with a game-high eight rebounds. In Storrs, Braylon Mullins kicked off his second campaign with a crisp, match-best 20 points.

Making his highly anticipated debut in Lawrence, star freshman Tyran Stokes flirted with a double-double during a 95-65 win. He posted 15 points and snatched seven boards. He wasn’t the only freshman that fans got to see in action for the first time. Both Deron Rippey Jr. and Bryson Howard debuted, flashing the skills that made them such highly ranked recruits.

These remarkable players, plus a handful of other names, represent the first batch of Panini NIL Instant cards that’ll be dropping throughout the season. Check back throughout the campaign to fill your collection with some of the latest and greatest outings.