DALLAS — A 2003 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection LeBron James rookie patch (Autographs-Level 1 #78 BGS Mint 9, Auto 10 74/99) sold for $324,000 to lead Heritage’s June 24 Sports Showcase Auction. Above and beyond the on-court magnificence of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, this particular issue represents a dramatic step forward in the collectibles realm for James and for Upper Deck. The Upper Deck Exquisite Collection had no shortage of doubters when it debuted with $500 price tags, but today there is no collector active during that period who does not regret failing to purchase every available box when they had the chance. Just 99 examples of this rookie format, pairing a patch of game-worn jersey and a bold blue sharpie signature, were inserted at random within those high-dollar boxes, and they are today considered the most desirable of all James rookie cards, bar none. Prices quoted with buyer’s premium as reported by the auction house. For information, 214-528-3500 or www.ha.com.