It was the beginning of the Late Classic period (A.D. 700-900) before ballplayer figurines resumed a significant role in the art of Veracruz. Mold-made Nopiloa culture figurines that share Classic Veracruz and Maya elements are the first to appear. Some are whistles. The ballplayer's equipment is typical of Veracruz, but the figurine is produced using Mayanized mold technology of Teotihuacan origin. The end of this ballplayer's yoke and his manopla both are jaguar heads. Additional equipment includes a right kneepad and a paid of protective armbands. The front of the head occasionally is shaved on Nopiloa figurines.

from Bradley, Life, Death & Duality: A Handbook of the Rev. Edmund P. Joyce, C.S.C. Collection of Ritual Ballgame Sculpture (Notre Dame, 1997)