One of YouTube’s biggest sports content creators, Jesser, chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about joining eBay Live at The Hobby’s biggest weekend.
On Saturday, August 1st, Jesser will join Upper Deck’s eBay Live stream, along with NBA legends Doug Collins and Ron Harper, Upper Deck President Jason Masherah and Matchfire’s Adam Fitzner to auction off 10 premium Michael Jordan collectibles valued between $8,000 and $15,000 each. The collection will also be on display throughout the convention in the eBay Arena.
For YouTube sensation Jesser, attending the National Sports Collectors Convention marks more than just another appearance—it represents a milestone in a journey that has spanned more than a decade.
“It will definitely be a big day,” Jesser said with enthusiasm. “I’ve never been to the National before, so it’s my first time experiencing the biggest event in the hobby. It’s huge, and I’m really excited.”
Known for his entertaining basketball content, collaborations with NBA stars, and passion for sports collectibles, Jesser has witnessed firsthand the remarkable resurgence of the hobby. While skyrocketing card values have captured headlines, he believes the true excitement lies elsewhere.
“It’s been incredible to watch,” he said. “I’ve been collecting sports memorabilia for a long time. I had a huge jersey collection, and over the years we’ve opened about $300,000 worth of NBA memorabilia on my YouTube channel.”
For Jesser, the most rewarding part isn’t the market itself but the people discovering it. “What I love most is seeing so many new people getting involved,” he shared. “Whenever I visit my local card shop, I see kids opening packs, getting excited, and learning about different players. That’s really cool to see.”
He also credits the hobby’s continued growth to the accessibility of live-streaming platforms.
“There are so many ways to get involved now,” he explained. “Through platforms like eBay Live and live breakers, people can learn about cards, hear the stories behind them, and become part of the community. I think that’s been one of the biggest reasons the hobby has grown.”
Ironically, Jesser’s own collection didn’t begin with expensive purchases.
“It honestly started through making videos with my friends and my brother,” he recalled. “We’d film NBA trivia challenges, and the winner would get a jersey from that player. Eventually we started giving away signed memorabilia and filming bigger mystery box videos. I wasn’t really buying my collection—I was winning it through challenges and creating content.”
The digital age
Having built one of YouTube’s most recognizable basketball channels, Jesser remains grateful for the evolution of digital media.
“I feel incredibly lucky,” he admitted. “I consider myself one of the OG creators because I’ve been doing this for a long time. When I first started, I never imagined content creation would become what it is today.”
What began as a hobby eventually evolved into a full-time career.
“The industry has grown beyond anything I ever could have imagined,” he said. “It’s genuinely amazing.”
One of the highlights of this year’s National will be Jesser’s participation in eBay Live’s Michael Jordan auction event alongside NBA legends Doug Collins and Ron Harper, as well as the President of Upper Deck.
“When eBay Live invited me to the National for this livestream, I couldn’t believe it,” he said. “It’s such a unique opportunity to hear Michael Jordan stories directly from people who experienced them while showcasing some incredible Jordan collectibles.”
Just as important, he appreciates that the event extends beyond those attending in person.
“I’m excited to bring the community together,” he said. “People who can’t make it to the National can still experience everything through the livestream, and I think that’s really special.”
Although his career continues to expand, Jesser remains committed to consistency.
“I’ve been uploading to YouTube every week for about 12 years,” he said. “I just want to keep making bigger and better videos, collaborate with more NBA players, and continue creating exciting experiences. We definitely have some exciting projects coming.”
Stage of his life
Away from the camera, life has entered a new chapter. Asked to describe this season of his life, his answer came quickly: “The Married Life.”
Career-defining moments
When reflecting on career-defining moments, one collaboration immediately stands out.
“My first collaboration with Giannis Antetokounmpo was a huge milestone,” he said. “Having one of the biggest NBA stars come to my studio opened a lot of doors—not only with other NBA players but also with brands. It really elevated my channel.”
Superpower of choice
Despite his success, Jesser’s answer to a lighthearted question about choosing a superpower revealed something more personal.
“I would want the ability to heal anyone I come into contact with,” he said.
Advice for hopefuls
For aspiring creators, his advice is rooted in authenticity and collaboration. “The most important thing is loving what you do,” he said. “When I started, I didn’t even know content creation could become a career.”
He also encourages young creators to avoid going it alone. “Find people who share your passion and create together,” he advised. “Doing it alone can be difficult and sometimes lonely. Some of my favorite memories have been making videos with my closest friends. Going through that journey as a team makes everything better.”
Success
Jesser’s definition of success reflects the same grounded perspective.
“Success isn’t just about reaching your goals,” he said. “It’s about enjoying the journey, because that’s where you spend most of your life. Set goals you’re passionate about, but enjoy the process along the way.”
At 27, he jokes that he feels “old” in today’s creator economy, where many rising influencers are still teenagers. Nevertheless, he sees experience as one of his greatest strengths.
“I’ve gone through the highs and lows, and I’ve been doing this for a long time,” he said. “That perspective and experience really help.”
Daily motivations
His motivation today extends well beyond personal achievement. “I have a company with more than 50 employees now,” he revealed. “Making sure everyone is supported is a huge motivation. As a creator, I have to keep creating opportunities—not just for myself, but for everyone on the team.”
Message for his fans
As the conversation drew to a close, Jesser expressed heartfelt appreciation for his fans while inviting them to participate in one of the hobby’s biggest celebrations.
“I’m incredibly grateful for my audience,” he said. “Hopefully I’ll get to meet some of them at the National while we’re showcasing these amazing Michael Jordan collectibles. If they can’t make it, I hope they’ll tune into the eBay Live stream so we can all enjoy the experience together.”
More than anything, he hopes viewers leave with an appreciation for what collecting truly represents.
“It’s about the stories, the memories, and bringing people together,” he concluded. “I’m hoping we’ll hear some incredible behind-the-scenes Michael Jordan stories from Ron Harper and Doug Collins. More than anything, I want everyone watching to have fun and walk away with a memorable experience.”
For Jesser, the collectibles themselves may be extraordinary, but the real value lies in the connections they create. Whether through YouTube, live events, or shared stories among fans, his mission remains unchanged: build community, inspire others, and never lose sight of the joy that made the journey worthwhile in the first place.
To learn more about Jesser, follow him on Instagram and TikTok.
