1957–58 Topps Basketball Card Set

  • Bill Russell

    NBA’s ultimate champion with 11 titles, Russell's only recognized rookie card. Scarce in high grade, it’s a cornerstone of vintage basketball card collecting.

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    Bob Cousy

    Known as the “Houdini of the Hardwood,” Cousy’s card showcases the Celtics legend. A vital piece of the set and early NBA history.

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    Nat Clifton

    Trailblazing figure as one of the NBA’s first Black players. His #1 card in the set symbolizes courage, change, and basketball’s expanding legacy.

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    Bob Pettit

    First NBA MVP and rebounding powerhouse. This card showcases a legend whose career helped shape the modern forward position—essential for any serious set builder.

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    Mel Hutchins

    Four-time All-Star and rugged rebounder of the '50s. His card captures a hard-nosed era, offering collectors a glimpse into the NBA’s early interior battles.

  • Tom Heinsohn

    Rookie card of Celtics great and Hall of Famer. Heinsohn’s aggressive play defined Boston’s dynasty, making this a foundational piece for collectors.

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    Dolph Schayes

    One of the NBA’s earliest superstars and a double-double machine. His only mainstream card captures a pivotal figure in the league’s formative years.

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    Bill Sharman

    Celtics sharpshooter and future Hall of Fame coach. This card honors his playing days, highlighting his crucial role in Boston’s backcourt brilliance.

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    George Yardley

    First NBA player to score 2,000 points in a season. His Topps debut is a tough find and a tribute to an often-overlooked scorer.

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    Dick Schnittker

    Role player for the Minneapolis Lakers’ early dominance. Rarely seen in collections, this card reflects the deep historical roots of the NBA’s original dynasty.
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1957–58 Topps Basketball Cards

Total Cards: 80
Card Size: 2 1/2" x 3 1/2"
Set Type: Single-series release
Manufacturer: Topps Chewing Gum, Inc.
Notable Rookie Cards: Bill Russell (#77), Bob Cousy (#17), Tom Heinsohn (#49)

The 1957–58 Topps Basketball set marks Topps’ debut in the sport and is only the second major basketball release of the post-war era. Packed with Hall of Famers like Bill Russell (RC), Bob Cousy, and Tom Heinsohn (RC), it coincides with the NBA’s emergence into the American mainstream. The bright, vertical design features color portraits and trivia-filled backs, though cards often suffer from poor centering and print flaws. Scarce in high grade, this standalone set remained Topps' only basketball issue until 1969–70, making it a crown jewel for vintage collectors and a tribute to the game’s early legends.