Upper Deck Unveils Dwyane Wade's Super Hero Alter Ego With New Action Figure

Exclusive Figure Based on 'Stylized Realism' Found in Comic-Book Art to Debut May 22nd

CARLSBAD, Calif., May 21, 2007 -- D-Wade's game inspires comparisons to those super heroes who live in Gotham City and Metropolis, slashing to the rim, flying in to the key to grab crucial rebounds. It is no wonder Upper Deck Authenticated has chosen to capture him in a new urban stylized action figure in home and road versions.

On May 22nd at 9:08 am (PDT) collectors and sports fanatics alike will be racing to get their hands on Dwyane Wade's All-Star Vinyl action figure. Wade is the third player from the Association to have his likeness portrayed in the coveted vinyl style produced by Upper Deck Authenticated (UDA). Produced to keep the print run low to protect collectors' long-term investment, UDA has produced 1500 "home" edition and 500 of the "road" version.

The Dwyane Wade action figure is available exclusively on www.allstarvinyl.com, the home edition will sell for $49.99 (USD) and the more limited road edition will be sold only on launch day in a dual home and road dual pack for $99.99.

The first member of the much-hyped rookie class of 03-04 to win an NBA Championship, Wade has consistently been the go-to-guy on a star studded team that features veteran players like Shaq and Gary Payton.

"Dwyane Wade is one of the most remarkable athletes in a league full of them," said Dave Sanders, All-Star Vinyl Brand Manager. "It was a no-brainer to add D-Wade to our line of All-Star vinyl action figures. We anticipate his All Star Vinyl figures to be very popular with vinyl collectors around the world."

More on Upper Deck's All-Star Vinyl Action Figurines

At 11 inches and produced in the underground style of urban vinyl, Upper Deck's All-Star Vinyl action figures are a combination of art and realism not typically found in sports licensed products. "In this medium, our designers are able to have fun by adding or playing up on player attributes and subtleties that give life to these athletes, highlight their distinct features, playing style -- design characteristics that make them highly unique in comparison to more traditional based sports figures."

To offer more details on the All-Star Vinyl figures, Upper Deck has set up dedicated web site with a blog written by Sanders -- allstarvinyl.com. It will also give consumers a first look at upcoming sports action figure launches throughout the year, giving insight into the athletes to be featured, as well as the artist and sculptor behind the piece.

History of Urban Vinyl Collectibles

The trend of urban vinyl collectibles originated in Hong Kong and Japan, recently becoming popular in the United States. A sign of its popularity: at the Toy Fair last February, the industry officially recognized this trend with its own exhibit hall titled "Urban Bazaar: Indie Art Toys."

Urban vinyl figures, or designer toys, are thought of as not just toys, but as pieces of art. Usually made of soft roto-cast PVC, referred to by collectors as "vinyl," many of the industry's product launches are held at gallery openings or release parties where the toys are displayed side-by-side with paintings and other types of art.

About the Upper Deck Company

Founded in 1988, The Upper Deck Co. is a premier global sports and entertainment-publishing company that delivers a portfolio of relevant, innovative and multi-dimensional product experiences to collectors, sports and entertainment enthusiasts. For more information on Upper Deck and its products, please visit www.upperdeck.com or www.upperdeckstore.com.