Panini America Offers an Extended Preview of 2012-13 Past & Present Basketball

The premiere edition of Panini America’s Past & Present Basketball product last season appealed to many different types of collectors for many different reasons, but the one common thread woven throughout the old-meets-new delight was pure, unadulterated fun.

From the tactile nature of 2011-12 Past & Present Basketball’s technology-driven inserts (such as Raining 3s and Breakout Stars) . . . to the wicked-cool throwback design of the base set . . . to the seldom-seen signers of Elusive Ink . . . to the sweet memorabilia offerings,  there’s no denying the high entertainment value of one of last season’s most impressive debut products.

Of course, all of that just means that Panini America’s NBA Product Development team has its work cut out for it when creating the highly anticipated follow-up edition. But judging by the following preview of 2012-13 Past & Present Basketball, the guys are more than up to the task.

Due out in early May, 2012-13 Past & Present Basketball will feature a 250-card base set that includes 50 short-printed variations and, for the first time ever, true Rookie Cards. Each box will deliver three autographs.

Other product highlights include:The classically styled base cards will be countered with six unique technology-driven inserts, including the return of Raining 3s, Treads (showcasing the  look and feel of sneaker treads), Winning Touch Banners and the felt-textured Headbands. The cereal-box-inspired Rise ‘n Shine insert is sure to be a big hit, too.

We’ll have tons more to share on 2012-13 Past & Present Basketball in the coming weeks and months. Until then, though, enjoy this first extended sneak peek . . .