Scorching: Panini America Peeks Fireworks Insert in 2011-12 Past & Present Basketball

With the 2012 NBA Playoffs set to begin today, it’s obvious that things are about to heat up in arenas across the league. But it’s getting hot inside Panini America HQ right about now, too.
Next week, the unique 2011-12 Past & Present Basketball begins packing out with a refreshing, new-meets-old mix of players and printing technologies that should be warmly embraced by hoops collectors of all levels. And one of the coolest inclusions in the product is actually one of the hottest: The 20-card Fireworks insert.

Boasting a superstar-stacked checklist, a scorching design and a stunning high-gloss, raised-relief finish, Fireworks is almost too hot handle. Almost. Luckily, though, holding one is the best way to truly appreciate all that Fireworks has to offer. But until you’re able to do that (the product begins shipping next week), the following gallery should fan the flames of anticipation.
Enjoy. And stay tuned to The Knight’s Lance tomorrow for a sneak preview of 2011-12 Past & Present Basketball’s Raining 3s insert, another technology-tinged beauty that must be seen — and, ultimately, touched — to be appreciated.