Yes, it took longer than expected. Yes, the anticipation was killing us, too. But after waiting for more than a year in some cases, collectors of one of the most beloved athletes of all time, can rest easy. Shaquille O'Neal's autographs have arrived safely and soundly inside Panini America HQ.
Yes, it took longer than expected. Yes, the anticipation was killing us, too. But after waiting for more than a year in some cases, collectors of one of the most beloved athletes of all time can rest easy.
Shaquille O’Neal’s autographs have arrived safely and soundly inside Panini America HQ.
Turns out all it took was O’Neal’s retirement-created downtime, a little help from the NBA Retired Players Association and some sweet talk and savvy negotiating from fellow Louisiana State University alum Ivory Tabb, Panini America’s NBA acquisitions guru.
Indeed, Tabb wasn’t the least bit reluctant to play the LSU card in ensuring the safe return yesterday of O’Neal’s signed 5 by 7 box-toppers from 2009-10 Court Kings, his Majestic Signatures from 2009-10 Crown Royale, his 2010-11 Threads Team Threads and his outstanding allotment of stickers.
And true to form, the Big Aristotle did not disappoint, randomly adding every jersey number he’s ever worn — either 32, 33, 34 or 36 — to each autograph. The arrival made for one of the most invigorating mail days around these parts in some time.
Chances are the autographs will have a similar effect for collectors, too.
that is FANTASTIC news! I can’t wait to get mine!
Sweet, I need one of these bad. Shaq is one of the only autos I’ve yet to pull from a pack!
That is sweeeeet…I would gladly take a Shaq auto as a replacement for my Limited Jumbo Signature Kobe (115366) ‘nudge’ ‘nudge’ …Congrats Panini
VEry cool!! It will be well worth the wait!
Nice can’t wait to get mine. Thanks Shaq
About time the big man signed his cards!
They look great!
Cheers
Matt
YES YES YES I get my box topper…….
I’ll be watching ebay for these babies!
Tracy, do you know if the Donruss Auto is being redeemed? Along with the Pau Gasol #/1(has this EVER surfaced??) and 3 or 4 others, that is one of the last ones I need for the set.
Thanks.
That is a design that you guys have to carry over to a Hockey product.
Hey tracy,
Glad to hear shaq has finally signed, any idea how long it will take for his autos to be mailed out to customers? Been waiting since jan.
Cheers adam