The phrase identifies a specific subset of basketball trading cards: those produced by the Hoops brand during the 1991 National Basketball Association season which command the highest prices in the collector’s market. These cards represent a snapshot of the league’s talent at that time, encapsulating star players and rising rookies. For example, a mint condition card featuring a prominent player from that set could be considered within this classification.
These collectibles are significant due to a confluence of factors including player popularity, card scarcity (relative to demand), grading quality, and historical context. The cards offer a tangible link to a pivotal era in basketball, marked by iconic players and memorable moments. Their valuation also reflects shifts in the collectibles market, influenced by nostalgia, investment trends, and the evolving perception of player legacies.