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Bob D’Angelo

Bob is a longtime member of the Florida sports media, having served as a reporter and copy editor for more than 30 years. His true sports passion, however, is the history of the various games, exhibited by his in-depth book reviews and hobby of collecting cards and other sports memorabilia. He blogs for TBO.com on both subjects, transferring his work for the Tampa Tribune to the realm of cyberspace.

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Bryant, Panini sign multiyear deal

Posted Sep 30, 2009 by Bob D'Angelo

Updated Sep 30, 2009 at 10:55 PM

Lakers star Kobe Bryant, who ended his relationship with Upper Deck earlier this week, has signed a multiyear agreement with the Panini Group to be its official company spokesman.

It’s a good move for both parties. Bryant, while a major draw at Upper Deck, still trailed UD spokesman Michael Jordan in terms of collectibility. And Panini, which became the NBA’s exclusive trading card partner earlier this year, now has a marquee name as the face of its basketball product.

Bryant’s deal will include autographs, memorabilia, and a joint charitable component.

Panini’s first NBA trading card release, Prestige Basketball, will launch on Oct. 7 and will feature the first authentic autographs from Bryant. He also will appear on Panini’s packaging for future NBA trading card releases.