The Boston Celtics and Los Angeles Lakers have advanced to the second round in the NBA's championship tournament. Both teams were favorites to win this year's NBA crown. As of today, the Lakers have been humiliated by the Dallas Mavericks in 4 quick games, the last 2 via blowout. The Celtics seem heading down a similar path. Why have two of the most storied NBA franchises looked so meek?
After watching the Celtics lose in overtime to the Miami Heat- now leading the series 3-1, it seems like the Celtics reign as Eastern conference champions is drawing to a close. What's staggering is that the Heat are imposing their will, youth and fury on these aging Celtics. Last night Lebron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh combined for 83 points. Most of them coming by slashing to the basket for easy jumpers and layups. The Celtics looked soft. The Kendrick Perkins deal has left a gaping hole in the middle with Shaquille O'Neal unable to fill in the void. Shaq hasn't been much of a contributer this post season and with no bruising big man in the middle, the Heat will likely end the Celtics run tomorrow.
The Lakers, uncharacteristically left this year's playoffs in complete turmoil. They were thoroughly outplayed by the Mavericks on both ends of the court who showed the poise and relentlessness as past championship Laker teams. Kobe Bryant, who usually carries this team and single handedly wins games by himself, looked listless and old. The Lakers lacked veteran leadership that became their staple the last 2 seasons with Lamar Odom and Andrew Bynum throwing cheap dirty fouls during their game 4 blowout.
Looking forward, both teams will be going through transition periods. The Celtics aging Big 3 will be intact for next season, but will need a different supporting cast to contend next year. The Lakers more than likely will have a new coach, but will keep their core of Bryant, Bynum, and Pau Gasol intact. Both teams will be good next year, but judging by these playoffs their days of winning titles are over.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Sports Autographs - Determining Value on Autographed Sports Memorabilia
Collecting sports autographs and autographed sports memorabilia has become a trendy and pricey hobby. No doubt collecting such items can be complicated and expensive. Like any investment vehicle, prices of autographed sports memorabilia are determined by supply and demand. This clip aims to clarify some of the confusion that help determine value on sports autographs.
The primary driver in valuation is popularity of the athlete. Athletes who have been the best in their sports like Michael Jordan, Mickey Mantle and Manny Pacquiao will command higher prices than others. These athletes set the bar in their trade and are regarded as Hall of Fame players. Championships, top rated rankings, MVP’s and other awards help cast the spot light on athletes propelling their autographs to higher levels.
The type of memorabilia athletes sign is also a key valuation driver. Game used balls, jerseys, bats, helmets etc. will be more expensive than replicas. The condition of the item also persuades buyers. Items in pristine condition will attract more interest than those that show signs of wear and deterioration.
The location of the signature can make a product more aesthetically appealing thus creating newness for collectors. Baseballs signed legibly in a non fading marker on the sweet spot will be draw more buyers and higher prices than ones that are non legible and on the side. The same holds true for jerseys, hockey pucks, bats, helmets and other memorabilia articles.
Signatures on documents can be worth tremendous amounts of money. It is believed that one of the most expensive sports athlete documents was Babe Ruth’s signature on a contract between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. This was the contract that led to the demise and the 86 year World Series drought for the BoSox meanwhile propelling the Yankees to record championships.
Not only is the popularity of the athlete important in valuing sports autographs, but also the supply of autographs available in the market place. It is said that Tiger Woods and Tom Brady rarely sign autographs when randomly asked. They sign memorabilia only in private auctions and events. Because of the rarity of signatures in the market, their autographed sports memorabilia costs a lot more.
Other factors to consider are whether the athlete is still alive. Popular athletes who have passed on are known as vintage collectibles. Their value tends to remain steady and rarely drops. Games in playoff mode also help drive athletes value simply because television networks and media outlets focus on those teams and players. For example athletes who perform well in an NBA Finals series will more than likely have a surge in autograph demand. Keep these tips in mind when searching for you favorite athletes.
The primary driver in valuation is popularity of the athlete. Athletes who have been the best in their sports like Michael Jordan, Mickey Mantle and Manny Pacquiao will command higher prices than others. These athletes set the bar in their trade and are regarded as Hall of Fame players. Championships, top rated rankings, MVP’s and other awards help cast the spot light on athletes propelling their autographs to higher levels.
The type of memorabilia athletes sign is also a key valuation driver. Game used balls, jerseys, bats, helmets etc. will be more expensive than replicas. The condition of the item also persuades buyers. Items in pristine condition will attract more interest than those that show signs of wear and deterioration.
The location of the signature can make a product more aesthetically appealing thus creating newness for collectors. Baseballs signed legibly in a non fading marker on the sweet spot will be draw more buyers and higher prices than ones that are non legible and on the side. The same holds true for jerseys, hockey pucks, bats, helmets and other memorabilia articles.
Signatures on documents can be worth tremendous amounts of money. It is believed that one of the most expensive sports athlete documents was Babe Ruth’s signature on a contract between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. This was the contract that led to the demise and the 86 year World Series drought for the BoSox meanwhile propelling the Yankees to record championships.
Not only is the popularity of the athlete important in valuing sports autographs, but also the supply of autographs available in the market place. It is said that Tiger Woods and Tom Brady rarely sign autographs when randomly asked. They sign memorabilia only in private auctions and events. Because of the rarity of signatures in the market, their autographed sports memorabilia costs a lot more.
Other factors to consider are whether the athlete is still alive. Popular athletes who have passed on are known as vintage collectibles. Their value tends to remain steady and rarely drops. Games in playoff mode also help drive athletes value simply because television networks and media outlets focus on those teams and players. For example athletes who perform well in an NBA Finals series will more than likely have a surge in autograph demand. Keep these tips in mind when searching for you favorite athletes.
Autographed Sports Memorabilia - The Market
Collecting has become a national and global phenomenon. Because of its popularity, the autographed sports memorabilia market has become a huge and successful enterprise. This article examines what is necessary to get into the collecting business as well as steps to be taken to avoid buying counterfeit sports memorabilia.
The market of collecting autographed sports memorabilia is no different than what Wall St terms as a Bull and Bear Market. Collecting is more of a hobby than a necessity. Hence, the demand in the sports memorabilia market drops in a downward economy and spikes when it's hitting on all cylinders. The sports market is constantly changing with different fads, trends, and rules affecting sports on a year to year basis. Performance and scandals affect players rise and fall as well. There are collectors' forums, social websites and vertical portals that help get information on what is the trend in sports.
Like any investment industry, careful research and studying needs to be done. Collecting autographed sports memorabilia is no different. There are countless tools like magazines, articles, trade shows, authenticators and dealers to help make informed decisions on purchasing autographed sports memorabilia. There are numerous forgers and scammers out there waiting to give a sports autograph of your favorite player at bargain basement prices. This automatically should be a red flag. Dealers go through great lengths to get athletes to sign merchandise in the so called "sweet spot" with a non fading marker that ensures the longevity of the signature. Again, price comparisons and research must be done to make sure the signature is authentic. Authenticators like Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services can help in authenticating products. Buying from trusted vendors that guarantee a money back return policy provides added protection that the memorabilia is authentic. Trusted vendors that give such a service are All Authentic Autographs, Hollywood Collectibles, Steiner, Sports Memorabilia and All Authentic.
It is also important to keep in mind that older, vintage autographs tend to hold their value more than those athletes currently playing. Older players have made their mark on their respective games and have solidified their place in history. Such is not true with those currently playing as countless events can happen that could affect the value of their autographs. Hardly will a player who has passed away ever have a drop in his autographed memorabilia value. Consider all these factors when purchasing autographed memorabilia of your favorite athletes. It will ensure a sports décor that is guaranteed to be worth every penny of your time and investment.
Ameesh Morjaria - Contributor, AllAuthenticAutographs.com
About AllAuthenticAutographs.com
All Authentic Autographs is a sports autograph and sports memorabilia company. All of our sports autographs and sports memorabilia products are guaranteed authentic and come with a certificate of authentication.
The market of collecting autographed sports memorabilia is no different than what Wall St terms as a Bull and Bear Market. Collecting is more of a hobby than a necessity. Hence, the demand in the sports memorabilia market drops in a downward economy and spikes when it's hitting on all cylinders. The sports market is constantly changing with different fads, trends, and rules affecting sports on a year to year basis. Performance and scandals affect players rise and fall as well. There are collectors' forums, social websites and vertical portals that help get information on what is the trend in sports.
Like any investment industry, careful research and studying needs to be done. Collecting autographed sports memorabilia is no different. There are countless tools like magazines, articles, trade shows, authenticators and dealers to help make informed decisions on purchasing autographed sports memorabilia. There are numerous forgers and scammers out there waiting to give a sports autograph of your favorite player at bargain basement prices. This automatically should be a red flag. Dealers go through great lengths to get athletes to sign merchandise in the so called "sweet spot" with a non fading marker that ensures the longevity of the signature. Again, price comparisons and research must be done to make sure the signature is authentic. Authenticators like Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services can help in authenticating products. Buying from trusted vendors that guarantee a money back return policy provides added protection that the memorabilia is authentic. Trusted vendors that give such a service are All Authentic Autographs, Hollywood Collectibles, Steiner, Sports Memorabilia and All Authentic.
It is also important to keep in mind that older, vintage autographs tend to hold their value more than those athletes currently playing. Older players have made their mark on their respective games and have solidified their place in history. Such is not true with those currently playing as countless events can happen that could affect the value of their autographs. Hardly will a player who has passed away ever have a drop in his autographed memorabilia value. Consider all these factors when purchasing autographed memorabilia of your favorite athletes. It will ensure a sports décor that is guaranteed to be worth every penny of your time and investment.
Ameesh Morjaria - Contributor, AllAuthenticAutographs.com
About AllAuthenticAutographs.com
All Authentic Autographs is a sports autograph and sports memorabilia company. All of our sports autographs and sports memorabilia products are guaranteed authentic and come with a certificate of authentication.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Denver Nuggets - Addition by Substraction
Has anyone looked at the Denver Nuggets recently? They have fallen below the radar since the Carmelo Anthony saga was resolved and have surged since then. Next to the L.A Lakers and Chicago Bulls, the Nuggets have been playing some of the best basketball in the NBA.
Yesterday the Nuggets dropped the Lakers- winners of 17 of their past 18 games, at home with a 95-90 victory. They are now 15-4 since trading their superstar Anthony and team leader Chauncey Billups. Apparently, no one told the Nuggets that they weren't supposed be this good. Once the smoke cleared, new comers Danilo Gallinari and Nugget veteran Kenyon Martin have energized this team. Once the pressure of winning was gone, this bunch have played carefree and team basketball. Meanwhile, things in New York haven't been as rosy for the Knicks.
The Nuggets have a clinched a playoff berth and look like a very dangerous opponent in the first round of the playoffs. If the playoffs were to start today, a matchup with Oklahoma City Thunder would be in order. I believe in momentum in the playoffs. A team peaking at the at the right time is extremely dangerous and do not count these Nuggets to quietly exit the playoffs.
Yesterday the Nuggets dropped the Lakers- winners of 17 of their past 18 games, at home with a 95-90 victory. They are now 15-4 since trading their superstar Anthony and team leader Chauncey Billups. Apparently, no one told the Nuggets that they weren't supposed be this good. Once the smoke cleared, new comers Danilo Gallinari and Nugget veteran Kenyon Martin have energized this team. Once the pressure of winning was gone, this bunch have played carefree and team basketball. Meanwhile, things in New York haven't been as rosy for the Knicks.
The Nuggets have a clinched a playoff berth and look like a very dangerous opponent in the first round of the playoffs. If the playoffs were to start today, a matchup with Oklahoma City Thunder would be in order. I believe in momentum in the playoffs. A team peaking at the at the right time is extremely dangerous and do not count these Nuggets to quietly exit the playoffs.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Sports Autographs - What do you want?
There are a lot of questions collectors have about autographed sports memorabilia and how to go about collecting sports autographs. The main question I always get asked is about valuations and authentications.
Sports Autographs are worth by the authentication process. If you cannot prove its authentication, you will have a hard time to find buyers who will pay top dollar. Usually, reputable companies will provide you with a certificate of authenticity and a guarantee money back policy. These are legit companies and ones that you should do business with. Of course selling autographed sports memorabilia has become a huge enterprise and fans have become closer to athletes than ever before. This means that fans are able to get signatures from athletes in their raw form. Players will sign memorabilia in haste creating speculation from buyers whether the autograph is real. There are companies out there that verify such memorabilia and have many different versions of a players autograph. The leaders in the industry are PSA/DNA and James Spence. A collectible certified by these companies will assure an authentic product. Usually companies (ours included) that sell autographed sports memorabilia will buy from different industry leaders and no one else. Trust is a huge part of the sports memorabilia market and one that should be taken seriously by both the buyer and seller.
Sports Autographs are worth by the authentication process. If you cannot prove its authentication, you will have a hard time to find buyers who will pay top dollar. Usually, reputable companies will provide you with a certificate of authenticity and a guarantee money back policy. These are legit companies and ones that you should do business with. Of course selling autographed sports memorabilia has become a huge enterprise and fans have become closer to athletes than ever before. This means that fans are able to get signatures from athletes in their raw form. Players will sign memorabilia in haste creating speculation from buyers whether the autograph is real. There are companies out there that verify such memorabilia and have many different versions of a players autograph. The leaders in the industry are PSA/DNA and James Spence. A collectible certified by these companies will assure an authentic product. Usually companies (ours included) that sell autographed sports memorabilia will buy from different industry leaders and no one else. Trust is a huge part of the sports memorabilia market and one that should be taken seriously by both the buyer and seller.
Baseball Autographs - What to expect from the Red Sox, Yankees and Phillies in 2011 season
A new baseball season has dawned before us and the excitement could not be greater. With spring in the air, one thing seems absolutely certain- America's favorite past time is back. There has been a bountiful of off season moves that make this season appealing. Powerhouses like the Boston Red Sox , New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies have revamped their teams to become favorites in winning the World Series. Which teams are for real? And which players will have the greatest impact for their teams to drive their baseball autograph values? These are compelling questions that will be addressed.
The Red Sox have added superstars Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez and a handful of great relievers to their solid core. Together with their starting pitching, I expect them to have a great season. One that will eventually end with winning their division and going deep in the playoffs. Barring injuries, the newest additions will perform above expectations thus igniting demand for their autographs. Guys like Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz should especially benefit from the new offensive additions.
Like the Red Sox, the Yankees are always in contention for the World Series. This year, however, they are fielding a team with less star power and more question marks than ever before. Derek Jeter's stock has plunged and the Yankees are throwing a starting rotation of CC Sabathia and A.J Burnett as the anchor of their rotation. Look for guys like Robinson Cano and especially Mark Texeira to step up to help the Yankees lack of pitching. I do see the Bombers making mid season moves to bolster their lineup and get back into the World Series chase. They always do.
The Phillies have made the biggest splash this off season and surprisingly, they weren't even supposed to be in the running for the Cliff Lee sweepstakes. Yet they added the most coveted free agent on the market. The Phillies boast Hall of Fame pitching in Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, Roy Oswalt and Joe Blanton. We all know that pitching wins championships- San Francisco Giants in 2010. This lineup is incredible. The only down side will be complacency and knowing you have someone the next day to cover your bad performance. That won't be a problem with Halladay. His work ethic is one of the best in baseball and I don't see him becoming lackadaisical. Look for Halladay and Lee to continue their dominant pitching in 2011.
The baseball season is only a few weeks away. The three teams making headlines- Red Sox, Yankees and Phillies are primed to make deep runs in the post season. Baseball autographs are always more valuable with players on winning teams. These teams will be at the top of their division and respective leagues in 2011. With being on top, comes the added spotlight and glory from fans and media. Thus, players on such teams tend to fetch higher prices for their baseball autographs than others.
The Red Sox have added superstars Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez and a handful of great relievers to their solid core. Together with their starting pitching, I expect them to have a great season. One that will eventually end with winning their division and going deep in the playoffs. Barring injuries, the newest additions will perform above expectations thus igniting demand for their autographs. Guys like Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz should especially benefit from the new offensive additions.
Like the Red Sox, the Yankees are always in contention for the World Series. This year, however, they are fielding a team with less star power and more question marks than ever before. Derek Jeter's stock has plunged and the Yankees are throwing a starting rotation of CC Sabathia and A.J Burnett as the anchor of their rotation. Look for guys like Robinson Cano and especially Mark Texeira to step up to help the Yankees lack of pitching. I do see the Bombers making mid season moves to bolster their lineup and get back into the World Series chase. They always do.
The Phillies have made the biggest splash this off season and surprisingly, they weren't even supposed to be in the running for the Cliff Lee sweepstakes. Yet they added the most coveted free agent on the market. The Phillies boast Hall of Fame pitching in Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, Roy Oswalt and Joe Blanton. We all know that pitching wins championships- San Francisco Giants in 2010. This lineup is incredible. The only down side will be complacency and knowing you have someone the next day to cover your bad performance. That won't be a problem with Halladay. His work ethic is one of the best in baseball and I don't see him becoming lackadaisical. Look for Halladay and Lee to continue their dominant pitching in 2011.
The baseball season is only a few weeks away. The three teams making headlines- Red Sox, Yankees and Phillies are primed to make deep runs in the post season. Baseball autographs are always more valuable with players on winning teams. These teams will be at the top of their division and respective leagues in 2011. With being on top, comes the added spotlight and glory from fans and media. Thus, players on such teams tend to fetch higher prices for their baseball autographs than others.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tips For Buying Sports Autographs
Here are some tips for buying autographed sports memorabilia:
1. Buy from a reputable vendors- preferable from stores that offer a money back guarantee.
2. Watch out for Ebay- If its too cheap, its probably not the real deal.
3. Do your research, shop and compare prices from different stores.
4. Find out who has authenticated the product.
5. Find stores that do business with sports authenticators.
These tips will ensure that you're buying authentic sports autographs.
1. Buy from a reputable vendors- preferable from stores that offer a money back guarantee.
2. Watch out for Ebay- If its too cheap, its probably not the real deal.
3. Do your research, shop and compare prices from different stores.
4. Find out who has authenticated the product.
5. Find stores that do business with sports authenticators.
These tips will ensure that you're buying authentic sports autographs.
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