1986-87 Fleer #78 Larry Nance
1986-87 Fleer #78 Larry Nance
About Larry Nance
A high-flying 6'10" power forward out of Clemson, Larry Nance was drafted 20th overall by the Phoenix Suns in 1981 and played 13 NBA seasons for the Suns (1981-1988) and Cleveland Cavaliers (1988-1994). He won the very first NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1984, edging Julius Erving in the final, which earned him the nickname "The High-Ayatollah of Slamola" for his acrobatic leaping. A three-time All-Star (1985, 1989, 1993), Nance was also an elite defender named First-Team All-Defensive in 1989 and Second-Team in 1992 and 1993. He averaged 17.1 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, retiring with 15,687 career points and, at the time, the NBA record for most blocked shots by a non-center. The Cavaliers retired his No. 22, later worn with his blessing by his son Larry Nance Jr. This is Nance's rookie card in the set.
Sources: Wikipedia · Basketball-Reference
About this card
The 1986-87 Fleer Larry Nance is card #78 in Fleer's landmark 'Premier' issue - the first nationally-distributed NBA set since 1981-82 Topps and, for many collectors, the start of the modern era of basketball cards. Because of the multi-year gap, it is the recognized Rookie Card for Larry Nance. He is pictured with the Phoenix Suns.
Graded population (PSA & SGC)
| Grader | Total | 10 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 1-6 | Auth |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSA | 3,111 | 99 | 1,022 | 1,355 | 413 | 222 | 0 |
| SGC | 194 | 2 | 54 | 76 | 30 | 24 | 8 |
Graded population — a scarcity guide, not a price. Snapshot 2026-06-26. Half-grades fold down (8.5→8).
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Frequently asked questions
What is the 1986-87 Fleer Larry Nance card?
It is card #78 of 132 in the 1986-87 Fleer Basketball set - Fleer's 'Premier' issue and the first nationally-distributed NBA set since 1981-82 Topps. It pictures the Phoenix Suns Larry Nance, and is his recognized rookie card.
Is the 1986-87 Fleer Larry Nance his rookie card?
Yes - the hobby treats 1986-87 Fleer as the Rookie Card for any player whose first nationally-distributed (pack-issued) card it is. Larry Nance had no Topps card before the set, so this is his recognized RC. (Limited-distribution Star Company cards from 1983-86 are classed as Extended Rookie Cards.)
Is the 1986-87 Fleer Larry Nance valuable?
Value depends heavily on grade and centering. Use the links above to check current T206 Cards inventory and live eBay listings.
Sources: the Trading Card Database, Basketball-Reference, and PSA & SGC population reports. Card data & population compiled and maintained by T206Cards.com. Page last updated 2026-07-01.