
It is common for basketball fans to bring signs to games, especially ones with catchy phrases or words like YES. While some arenas may have restrictions on the size and content of signs, with some prohibiting large banners and flags, fans often find creative ways to sneak them in. In addition to signs, fans also bring items like basketballs, jerseys, shoes, and cards for autographs from their favourite players. The choice of item and pen colour is often influenced by the team's colours and the collector's preference. Some players may have autograph deals or restrictions on what they can sign, but for the most part, they are willing to sign items for their enthusiastic fans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose of bringing signs to a basketball game | To support the team, or to get on TV |
| Restrictions on bringing signs to a basketball game | Signs with explicit language, profanity or derogatory remarks are not allowed. Large banners and flags are also not permitted. |
| Recommended items to get signed by a basketball player | Basketball shoes, basketballs, jerseys, photos, and game-used equipment |
| Recommended pen types for getting an autograph | Paint pens are recommended over Sharpies as they last longer and do not fade. For jerseys and similar items, a medium-sized pen point is recommended, while for smaller items like cards, a smaller point may be needed. |
| Recommended pen colors for getting an autograph | Color that matches the team or jersey color; black, silver, or gold |
| Recommended pen brands for getting an autograph | Decocolor Paint Marker |
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What You'll Learn
- NBA players may sign basketball cards or memorabilia, but some have exclusive deals with sponsors
- People bring signs to games to support their team, but there are size restrictions and prohibited items
- To get an autograph, use paint pens with medium or fine tips in the team's colour or black/gold/silver
- Basketballs to sign include on-court balls or replicas, with on-court balls being more valuable to collectors
- Other items to get signed include jerseys, shoes, photos, and game-used equipment

NBA players may sign basketball cards or memorabilia, but some have exclusive deals with sponsors
NBA players may sign basketball cards or memorabilia, but some players have exclusive deals with sponsors, which can impact what they are willing or able to sign for fans. While players can sign items of their own free will, some have asserted exclusivity rights, only signing at events hosted by their sponsor or limiting signatures to sponsor-affiliated cards or memorabilia. For example, when Lillard was first drafted, he only signed Leaf cards due to a deal with the brand. LeBron James has had similar exclusive deals with Upper Deck and, more recently, Fanatics. In addition to exclusive deals, some players have autograph deals that prevent them from signing certain items. While these deals can restrict what players sign, season ticket holder events can provide opportunities to obtain autographs from players who are typically more restrictive.
NBA players' signatures on cards and memorabilia can be authenticated and verified by companies like PSA/Beckett, which compare signatures to other known examples from the same person. This process does not rely on anecdotal evidence but on the consistency of the signature with other samples. The NBA also offers officially licensed trading cards and collectibles, some of which are autographed, through its partnership with Fanatics and its Fanatics Collectibles division. Fanatics has an exclusive license deal with the NBA for collectibles and has signed exclusive deals with players like LeBron James for trading cards bearing his name and image.
While some players have exclusive deals or restrictions on what they will sign, these instances are relatively rare, and most players do not have such restrictions. NBA fans have shared strategies for obtaining autographs from players, including sending direct messages on Twitter and mailing cards to players through team addresses. In addition to autographs, fans can purchase officially licensed NBA trading cards and collectibles, some of which are autographed, through the NBA Store operated by Fanatics Retail Group North, LLC.
The market for NBA trading cards and collectibles is highly competitive, with companies like Fanatics, Panini, and Topps vying for exclusive deals with the NBA and players. Fanatics' recent entry into the collectibles market and its acquisition of Topps' sports division have led to a shift in the industry, with multiple leagues and brands moving their business from Panini to Fanatics. As the exclusive collectibles licensee of the NBA, Fanatics is well-positioned to capitalize on the popularity of NBA trading cards and collectibles, especially with its exclusive deals with players like LeBron James.
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People bring signs to games to support their team, but there are size restrictions and prohibited items
Fans bring signs to basketball games to show support for their team and to cheer on individual athletes. Signs can be an effective way to show enthusiasm and connect with loved ones, and they can even be used to attract spectators to the game.
However, bringing signs to basketball games may be subject to certain restrictions. Some arenas do not allow signs at all, while others may permit small signs that do not obstruct the view of other spectators or cameras. In some cases, signs with obscene or indecent messages may be prohibited, as outlined in the NBA Fan Code of Conduct.
To ensure that their signs are allowed inside the arena, fans may need to be creative. Some people suggest making signs out of cloth so they can be easily stuffed into a bag and sneaked into the arena. Others recommend arriving at the game early and taking advantage of sign-making booths that may be available inside.
While bringing signs to basketball games can be a fun way to show support, it's important to be mindful of the restrictions and potential inconveniences to other spectators. Fans should also be prepared for the possibility of having their signs taken away by security if they block someone's view or contain inappropriate content.
In addition to traditional signs, fans can also express their support through other means, such as apparel. Shirts, baseball caps, and other clothing items can be customized with team colours, logos, and personalized messages. This allows fans to showcase their team spirit and creativity without worrying about size restrictions or obstructed views.
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To get an autograph, use paint pens with medium or fine tips in the team's colour or black/gold/silver
When it comes to getting an autograph, the pen you choose is crucial. The right pen will ensure that your autograph is clear and precise, enhancing the overall value of the signed item. If you're looking to get an autograph on a basketball, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, consider the pen type. Paint pens are generally recommended for sports balls as they last longer and stand out more than other types of pens. Oil-based paint markers are a good option as they come in a variety of colours and tip sizes. If you're looking for a specific brand, Posca paint pens are a popular choice, although they can be quite expensive. Other options include DecoColor and Sharpie Paint Pens, which offer a range of colours.
When choosing the colour of your pen, you may want to consider using the team's colour to add a nice touch and enhance the value of the item. However, black, gold, and silver are also popular choices for basketball autographs. Silver, in particular, is a colour that stands out on jerseys. If you go with silver, a Deco fine pen is recommended for the best colour payoff.
In terms of pen tips, it's important to match the tip size to the item you're getting signed. For basketballs, a medium to broad tip is recommended. Medium tips are a good middle ground between broad and extra-fine tips, ensuring that the autograph is visible without being too thick. Fine tips can also work for basketballs, especially if you prefer a thinner signature.
It's worth noting that some sources suggest using a blue ballpoint pen for autographs as it dries faster and is less likely to fade compared to other colours. However, ballpoint pens are generally not recommended for anything other than baseballs.
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Basketballs to sign include on-court balls or replicas, with on-court balls being more valuable to collectors
Basketball fans have many options when it comes to choosing items to get autographed by basketball players at public events. Basketballs to sign include on-court balls or replicas, with on-court balls being more valuable to collectors. On-court balls are much more expensive than replica balls, costing around $100-$150, while a replica basketball will cost around $20-$40. However, the higher price of the on-court balls pays off when it comes to their resell value, as they are considered more valuable by collectors.
When it comes to choosing a pen to autograph basketballs, it is recommended to use paint pens instead of standard sharpie markers as they last longer and do not fade quickly. The colour of the pen is also a matter of preference, with some people choosing to go with the team colour or jersey colour, while others prefer to stick to generic colours like black, silver, or gold. For basketballs, broader-tipped pens are recommended, while extra fine tips are suitable for smaller items like cards or ticket stubs.
Some basketball players have specific deals with certain brands, which may restrict the types of items they can sign for fans. For example, when Lillard was first drafted, he only signed Leaf cards due to a deal with the brand. Similarly, LeBron had a similar arrangement with Upper Deck. It is worth noting that players rarely refuse to sign autographs, but these brand deals can sometimes influence which items they are willing to sign.
Overall, when deciding what item to get signed by a basketball player, fans should consider the type of item, the pen to use, and any potential restrictions the player may have due to brand deals.
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Other items to get signed include jerseys, shoes, photos, and game-used equipment
Basketball fans have the opportunity to get various items autographed by their favourite players at public appearances or autograph-signing events. While basketball cards are a popular item to get signed, some players may refuse to sign certain cards due to exclusive deals with specific brands. For instance, LeBron James has been known to only sign Upper Deck cards for fans.
If you're considering what item to get signed, jerseys, shoes, photos, and game-used equipment are all popular choices. Jerseys can be either replica or on-court jerseys, with the latter being more expensive and preferred by collectors. Similarly, when it comes to basketballs, on-court balls are more valuable to collectors than replica balls, but they also come at a higher price point.
It's important to consider the type of pen or marker used for the autograph, as this can affect the longevity and display quality of the signature. Paint pens, such as the Decocolor Paint Marker, are recommended for their long-lasting and fade-resistant qualities. The pen's colour can be chosen to match the athlete's team or jersey, or one can opt for classic colours like black, silver, or gold. For larger items like basketballs or jerseys, a broad-tip pen is ideal, while smaller items like cards or ticket stubs call for extra-fine tips.
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Frequently asked questions
Spectators are not permitted to bring large banners or flags to games. However, some people do bring signs to games, but they have to sneak them in.
Paint pens are recommended because they last longer and do not fade compared to a standard sharpie marker. The pen colour can be the athlete's team colour or jersey colour, or you can use black, silver or gold.
Basketball shoes, basketballs, jerseys, photos and game-used equipment are all good options. Replica items are cheaper but are not worth as much when it comes to resell value.
It depends on the player and the circumstances. Some players have autograph deals or exclusive rights that prevent them from signing certain items.









































