Today we’d like to introduce you to CJ Breen.
Hi CJ, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In the three years following my college graduation, I, CJ Breen, a proud resident of Dallas, Texas, skyrocketed to become one of the most prominent figures in the sports trading card industry. My groundbreaking achievements in the NIL space as well as introducing the first-ever pickleball trading card in history, coupled with securing multi-million dollar business ventures, speaks volumes of my entrepreneurial prowess. Notably, my creation of the critically acclaimed “Trading Card of the Year” in 2023, as voted by trading card hobby enthusiasts, further solidifies my impact in the field.
Moreover, my success extends beyond mere innovation; I have successfully negotiated over 12 new league and movie licensing deals for Leaf within the past year alone. I’ve had the privilege of rubbing shoulders with influential personalities such as David Goggins, Dave Portnoy, and many more significant figures in sports.
I am a distinguished alumnus of St. Cloud State, Chicago State, and Niagara University, excelling on the field and contributing to my teams’ victories, including clinching the Alaska League baseball championship. Even in my professional baseball career, I continued my winning streak, being part of the Pecos League championship team with the San Rafael Pacifics.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been anything but a smooth road—but that’s exactly what’s made the journey so meaningful. Transferring schools and trying to break into one of the most niche industries out there—where it’s nearly impossible to get in unless you know someone—was no easy task. I spent years grinding, sacrificing sleep, and building real connections from the ground up.
People often see the highlight reel: the followers, the big names I’m around. But what they don’t see is that while others were out partying in college, I was locked in—working around the clock to build something that would give my family and me the life we deserve. Every challenge, every failure, pushed me to grow. They didn’t just test me—they taught me. They gave me resilience, focus, and the mindset to chase the best version of myself every single day.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work in the sports trading card industry, which is definitely a unique and evolving space. I specialize in bringing culture, creativity, and authenticity into everything I do. I’m with Leaf Trading Cards—one of the few companies truly pushing the boundaries of what trading cards can be.
I’m known for helping spotlight underrepresented athletes, especially women, and for bridging the gap between sports, entertainment, and fan engagement through innovative card drops, creative collaborations, and meaningful storytelling.
Whether it’s partnering with major athletes like Patrick Mahomes, Aryna Sabalenka, and Lionel Messi, launching relief-driven campaigns like our Hurricane Milton initiative, or developing officially licensed collections like PBA, PBR, PowerSlap, MiLB, and Blue Mountain State—I’m always focused on creating work that resonates. I love being behind the scenes, bringing big visions to life, and crafting moments that truly connect with fans.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is from middle school, when my dad would drive an hour each way just to spend time with me during my recess and lunch periods. He’d hit me ground balls, throw the football around, and then we’d grab lunch together. I don’t know any other parents that would do this for their children.Those moments meant everything to me. That kind of love, effort, and quality time created memories I’ll cherish forever and I hope I can one day pass that kind of love to my kids.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cj_breen/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjbreen
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lifeaftersports?si=J7EvfhqYK4_c-Ohk
