EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Jake LaRavia, newly signed by the Los Angeles Lakers, experienced a surreal moment this summer when he came face-to-face with Jimmy Mahan, an internet-famous card collector he idolized. The encounter marked a unique convergence of LaRavia’s dual worlds, where he combines his professional basketball career with a genuine passion for collecting sports trading cards.
LaRavia, who stands at 6-foot-7, first made headlines when the Lakers reached out to him as their primary free agent contact this offseason. At a party in 2024, he was eager to introduce himself to Mahan, who had gained fame for ripping packs of trading cards on social media. This excitement underscores LaRavia’s down-to-earth nature, as he described himself simply as a “regular person” who enjoys video games and card collecting.
While most athletes might be preoccupied with their status in the league, LaRavia embraces the joy of being a fan. He enjoys digging through card packs, hunting for his rookie cards, while slipping into the role of just another enthusiastic collector. At Bullpen Sports HQ, a local memorabilia shop, he opened $200 worth of packs in search of valuable cards, only to find that the highlight was an autographed card of Milwaukee Bucks backup guard Ryan Rollins, while the star cards of his teammates like LeBron James and Luka Dončić found themselves in the discard pile.
LaRavia’s unique approach to card collecting resonates within the community, as many appreciate his genuine enthusiasm for a hobby that often leads to vast collections. After being drafted 19th overall in 2022 by the Memphis Grizzlies, he returned to the hobby with newfound fervor, amassing around 1,000 Jake LaRavia cards and even incorporating playful gestures, like inscribing “DM me” on one of his first signed cards.
Last season, LaRavia averaged nearly 7.0 points per game with the Grizzlies while shooting 42.3% from three-point range, drawing attention not just for his play but for his character. The Lakers, banking on his potential, secured him on a two-year, $12 million deal shortly after free agency opened. His versatility could prove instrumental, as he seeks to enhance the Lakers’ gameplay by serving as a floor spacer and taking on defensive assignments.
LaRavia’s journey, firmly rooted in his passion for the game and the trading card community, is a testament to his resilience and determination. With a bright future ahead, he aims to embody the winning mentality of the Lakers, bringing his unique energy to the court. As LaRavia continues to chase his dreams, both in basketball and in collecting cards, he remains grounded, appreciating the thrill of the hunt, whether it’s for a coveted card or a crucial play. His infectious enthusiasm suggests that both he and the Lakers have exciting times ahead, filled with possibilities and potential triumphs.