News

For the first time since 2019, Donruss WNBA Basketball is returning, and it’s bringing with it one of Panini’s most popular inserts across all sports. The fan-favorite Downtown series, which debuted in Donruss Football in 2018, will finally make its way to the WNBA. Collectors are already anticipating the chance to pull superstar names like Caitlin Clark on the iconic insert.

Hobby boxes will contain 12 packs with 8 cards per pack. Each box delivers three total hits in the form of autographs or memorabilia cards, along with 24 inserts or parallels. Mega boxes offer 15 packs of 10 cards, with one autograph or memorabilia card and 20 inserts or parallels.

The base checklist will span 100 cards and include the well-known Rated Rookies, ensuring newcomers to the league get spotlighted. Each base card also comes in a Jersey version, with parallels capped by a Prime /25 edition. Panini hasn’t revealed the complete parallel lineup yet, but if Donruss WNBA follows the structure of its NBA and NFL counterparts, collectors should expect a full rainbow of colors and numbered variations.

Inserts will be a major feature of the release. Downtown will be the clear headline, but several other themed sets add variety:

• Tunnel Vision: Celebrating players’ pregame fashion looks.

• Mascots: Spotlighting team mascots.

• Courtside: Wide-angle action imagery from the hardwood.

• Franchise Features: Showcasing players who are the cornerstone of their teams.

Panini is also tapping into history with a retro nod. The WNBA’s inaugural season in 1997 had trading cards produced by Pinnacle, a brand Panini now owns. A new 1997 Pinnacle Retro insert pays homage to that first set, though thankfully, the cards won’t be packaged in cans like the quirky original Pinnacle Inside release.

Autograph chases include Private Signings and the rookie-focused Next Day On-Card Autographs, giving collectors both veteran stars and fresh faces to pursue.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Hobby Boxes: 12 packs, 8 cards per pack, 16 boxes per case.

  • Hits: 3 autographs or memorabilia cards.

  • Inserts/parallels: 24 total.

• Mega Boxes: 15 packs, 10 cards per pack.

  • Hits: 1 autograph or memorabilia card.

  • Inserts/parallels: 20 total.

• Set size: 100 cards.

• Release date: October 16, 2025 (subject to change).

With the return of Donruss to the WNBA, collectors can look forward to a mix of classic Donruss design, modern parallels, autographs, and the first ever Downtown WNBA cards — a combination that ensures this release will be one of the most talked about basketball products of the year.