When I was a tot, I would read the Beckett Basketball guide like gospel (the prices alongside the articles). Without fail, I focused on in two cards each issue: The most expensive card in the guide (and the card continues to be the most valued) the 1948 Bowman George Mikan card, and, perhaps the most recognizable basketball card, the 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan Rookie:
While the Mikan card is obviously too expensive to even consider in good condition, the Jordan in good condition can be had for ~1.5k. Adding in the fact that it will hold or increase in value + the fun of the hunt looking for a good deal, and the right opportunity could make me jump.
Even if I never do, though, I do know that simply talking to UB a bit about this on gchat has led to me burning hours scouring ebay for various cards. This...this is addicting.