The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show

After years of working behind the scenes at private autograph signings, there are certain athletes and experiences you simply never forget.

In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, I’m counting down my 10 favorite athletes I’ve ever worked with at autograph signings.

Some made the list because of their personality, others because of unforgettable conversations, and a few because of moments that happened behind the scenes that collectors rarely get to see.

And some of the names that made my Top 10 might surprise you.

What...

What pen should you use when getting a Funko Pop autographed?

In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt breaks down the best pens for signing Funko Pop windows, including DecoColor, POSCA, and Molotow paint pens, along with which colors and tip sizes work best.

We’ll also explain why we generally avoid standard Sharpies on Funko Pops, how to protect the box when sending it to a signing, where authentication stickers should be placed, and why you should always test your pen before the autograph.

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What is the best pen for getting a basketball autographed?

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt breaks down the pens we use for NBA authentic basketballs, replica basketballs, NCAA basketballs, and white panel basketballs.

We cover when to use a silver DecoColor paint pen, why the Pentel N50 is one of our favorite choices for black autographs, which pens we tend to avoid, and how the material of the basketball can affect your autograph over time.

Plus, learn a few simple tips for protecting and...

What pen should you use when getting a football autographed?

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt breaks down the best pens for authentic leather footballs and white-panel footballs, including why silver paint pens are the go-to choice for authentic footballs and why the Pentel N50 works so well on white panels.

We also cover one pen you definitely want to avoid, the differences between broad and fine tips, and an important shipping tip that can help prevent an autograph from smudging or sticking to plastic.

Whether you're getting one...

Choosing the right pen can make a huge difference in how an autographed helmet turns out.

In this episode, we break down our favorite pens for mini and full-size helmets, including Sharpie, Pentel N50, DecoColor, POSCA, and Molotow.

We’ll discuss which pens work best for black, silver, gold, white, and specialty colors, plus how the size of the autograph, inscriptions, helmet design, and future autographs should affect your choice.

If you’re getting a helmet signed, this episode will help you pick the right pen before the athlete ever puts ink...

Barry Bonds is one of the greatest and most controversial players in baseball history, but his memorabilia market has been surprisingly quiet for years.

That may finally be changing.

With Bonds signing new Topps cards in 2025 and 2026—and some of those autographs selling for hundreds or even thousands of dollars—collectors seem to be paying attention again.

We discuss why the Barry Bonds market may have been undervalued, how his lack of autograph signings created scarcity, the impact of his complicated legacy, and what could happen if he eventually enters the Hall of Fame...

What is the best pen for getting a sports card autographed?

It is one of the most common questions we get at Powers Sports Memorabilia, and the answer depends on the card, the autograph, and what you ultimately want to do with it.

In this episode, Matt Powers breaks down the pens we actually use during athlete signings, including Sharpie, Posca, DecoColor, Molotow, and fine-tip Staedtler pens.

We discuss why blue Sharpie is usually our first choice, especially when autograph quality and potential PSA autograph grading are important. We...

 Why do autograph signings sometimes get delayed or canceled after collectors have already sent in their items? Matt Powers breaks down what really happens behind the scenes, from canceled flights and injuries to career changes, scheduling problems, money disputes, and athletes simply changing their minds. Plus, learn why a postponed signing sometimes reaches the point where returning customers items is the best option. 

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In this episode we're joined by Alex Studio to discuss his fascinating custom sports card business, and the creative process behind his viral content. Hear the incredible story of how he handed out 28 John Pork cards at a Royals game, and watched as fans jokingly credited the card for sparking the team's winning streak.

In this episode we are joined by soccer card expert, Rabona Cards, to discuss the beginner’s guide of soccer card collecting in 2026. We cover the World Cup’s impact on card values, top players to watch, transfer window opportunities, rookie cards, investing strategies, and the best soccer cards to buy for new collectors entering the hobby.

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt and Caleb break down the issue of fake autographs and how to spot them. Should you authenticate everything you buy? How are autographs forged? This guide covers the key things to watch for when purchasing authentic sports memorabilia.

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt and Caleb break down one of the biggest questions in the hobby: why does PSA dominate the card grading world—and can anyone actually compete with them?

Join us as we break down two of the most iconic case hits in the sports card hobby: Kaboom and Downtown. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting into high‑end inserts, this guide uncovers the key differences, market trends, and long‑term potential of these hobby favorites. Learn what sets each case hit apart, how rarity and design impact value, and which one might be the better chase for your collection or investment strategy. This is the ultimate breakdown every sports card collector needs.

Join us as Sports Card Investor's Tyler Nethercott sheds light on the controversial topic of aftermarket autographs in the sports card industry. Discover the facts, myths, and risks associated with aftermarket autographs and learn how to navigate this complex market with confidence. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that every sports card collector and investor needs to hear!

1:07 – Aftermarket autographs
5:06 – Discussion about card grading
9:15 – Card grading details
11:23 – What it takes to match PSA
19:30 – Topps card design discussion
24:24 – Starting a sports card collection
28:23 – Autograph story
32:13 – What is Market Movers?
34:04 – Wrapping up

PSA turnaround times have stretched to 95+ business days—and that delay is creating a unique opportunity in the sports card market.

In this episode, we break down three smart strategies collectors and flippers can use to take advantage of the slowdown. From targeting low population PSA cards to leveraging faster grading options like CGC, and even using higher PSA service levels to beat the market, this episode is all about turning delays into profit.

If you are buying, grading, or selling cards right now, understanding how timing impacts supply, pricing, and competition could give you a...

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we sit down with Todd McFarlane, the legendary creator and collector who owns one of the most iconic pieces in sports history — Mark McGwire’s 70th home run baseball.

Todd takes us inside the story of acquiring the ball that captured the attention of the entire sports world, and what it means to own a true piece of history. We also dive into his experience with Barry Bonds’ 73rd home run ball and how those moments helped shape the modern memorabilia market.

Beyond the headlines, Todd explai...

What actually makes an autograph signing great?

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we break down three simple things that can turn an average signing into a memorable one for collectors, fans, and everyone involved. Inspired by recent signings with Matthew Stafford and Sam Darnold, we talk about what athletes can do that truly makes a difference at the signing table.

First, it starts with the quality of the autograph. Taking the time to sign clearly and consistently shows respect for the fans and...

Autographed cards are one of the most popular parts of the hobby, but not all autographs are created equal. In this episode, we break down the real differences between sticker autographs and on card autographs, including how each type is signed, why manufacturers use them, and how collectors view them.

We discuss which autograph style is preferred, how design and placement can impact appeal, and whether sticker autographs truly hurt value or simply serve a different purpose in the hobby. Whether you are new to collecting or a long time collector, this episode helps you understand what...

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we take you behind the scenes of a recent Stephen Curry signing that had everything uncertainty, rare collectibles, international collectors, and moments you never see as a fan.

We talk about what it is really like working with an NBA superstar of Curry’s stature and why, despite the pressure and expectations, Stephen continues to be one of the most courteous and generous athletes we work with. From signing for an hour and a half after a game to sitting down and eating pizza with us late into th...

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we go inside one of our most memorable signings ever with Patriots legend Julian Edelman. Julian and I quickly connected over something bigger than football — we’re both from the same area — and that shared background set the tone for a signing experience that was personal, detailed, and unforgettable.

Julian was genuinely shocked when he saw that we had a pair of his game-used cleats. What made the moment even more special was how locked in he was on every single item he signed. For each card placed in fro...

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we go inside a Rod Carew autograph signing and break down what collectors should know before sending items in. From choosing the right items and pens, we share practical tips and tricks to help you get the most out of a Rod Carew signing.

We also discuss common mistakes collectors make with Rod Carew autographs.  Whether this is your first Rod Carew autograph or you are adding another piece to an already strong collection, this episode is designed to help you prepare smarter.

Plus, we share a...

Why do some autographs turn out bold and beautiful while others look rushed, streaky, or barely readable? In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt breaks down the four core factors that determine autograph quality—essential knowledge for any collector or anyone sending items into private signings.

You’ll learn how the item itself impacts ink absorption, why certain materials like glossy photos, baseball leather, and stitched jersey numbers consistently deliver better results, and why mesh jerseys or dark basketballs can be a challenge even for experienced signers.

Ma...

When it comes to submitting your prized sports card, the big question is always the same: should you grade just the autograph, the card itself, or both at the same time? In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt breaks down the pros and cons of each option. From cost considerations to resale value and collector preferences, you’ll learn how to make the smartest decision for your collection. Whether you’re holding a Hall of Famer’s rookie card or a sentimental piece with a signature, this episode will help you understand what truly adds v...

We missed them once. Then we missed them again. But we weren’t leaving Chicago without this card finished.

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt takes you on the wild rollercoaster that was The Antetokounmpo Triple. What started as a missed signing turned into a chaotic chase across the show floor, with Giannis, Thanasis, and Kostas always one step ahead. After striking out completely on Saturday, hope was fading—until a surprising turn of events led to a breakfast table in Chicago on Sunday morning.

Listen in as we relive the laug...

We hit the road—literally—for a legendary autograph session with Celtics icon Larry Bird. In this episode, I share the full story behind the 7.5-hour drive through Indiana backroads, hauling signed memorabilia and chasing down perfection. From last-minute travel decisions to the surprising personality of Larry himself, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to pull off a high-profile private signing.

Plus, find out which customer-submitted items stood out, how our new autograph board held up, and why Brazil, Indiana means more than just a dot on the map. Whether you're a collector, a Ce...

On this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we dive deep into what truly makes an autograph collectible—and it's not just the signature. From bold, full-name autographs to the quick, lazy scribbles that frustrate collectors, we break down the impact of autograph quality on long-term value. But there's another side that often gets overlooked: the personality of the athlete behind the signature. Does being fan-friendly, humble, or showing up at events matter? Absolutely. We’ll share real stories of athletes who elevate their legacy by caring about their fans—and a few who fall short. If you're seriou...

Step into the heart of Detroit where the ink flows as boldly as the legends themselves. In this episode of Motor City Ink, we dive into some of the most unforgettable autograph stories to ever come out of the Motor City.

From the jaw-dropping Calvin Johnson multi-signed, multi-inscription masterpiece—a rare piece with every accolade perfectly penned—to tales of Barry Sanders, the gold standard of autograph signers. No smudges, no skips—just crisp, clean perfection from the greatest running back to ever pick up a pen.

Hear behind-the-scenes stories from signin...

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, I take you behind the scenes of our recent trip to California for an unforgettable Kevin Garnett autograph signing. From hopping on a last-minute flight to setting up dozens of items, you'll hear what it's really like to work with one of the NBA’s most intense legends. Plus, KG opened up about his diet and shared his thoughts on drinking out of the Stanley Cup. Tune in for exclusive stories, laughs, and everything that made this signing one to remember. 

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In this special episode, we recap our unforgettable experience at the Bob Cousy autograph signing. At 96 years old, Cousy’s signature remains one of the cleanest and most consistent in the game—a true testament to the Hall of Famer’s class and precision. Matt shares behind-the-scenes stories from the signing, traveling to his house, and why Cousy’s autograph is still one of the most sought-after in the hobby.

We also dive into Cousy’s thoughts on former teammates and rivals, including his respect for the late Bill Russell, his memories of going head-to-head with Wilt Chamberlai...

In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we’re diving into the biggest mistake athletes make when signing autographs—and it’s costing them money and collectors a better experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your autograph journey, this one thing can completely change your signing experience.

We’re talking about autograph quality—why it matters, how it affects your legacy, and what fans really want when they pay for your signature. You’ll learn how small changes can lead to a better fan experience, stronger personal brand, a...

Is an Authentication Sticker Worth It? The Pros & Cons for Collectors
In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we dive into one of the most debated topics in the hobby: should you add an authentication sticker or hologram to your signed sports cards?

We surveyed collectors and the results might surprise you—50% said no, 30% said yes, and 20% landed somewhere in the middle. So why the divide?

We break down the reasons behind each stance:
 ✅ Why some collectors prefer authentication: 61% value the witness certification, 15% say it's hard...

Autograph signings may seem simple, but behind the scenes, it’s organized chaos! In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the biggest challenges of signings—missed autos, botched inscriptions, the dreaded wrong pen choice, and more. Why do inscriptions even matter, and how can a bad autograph be fixed? Plus, we highlight one of the best signers in the game and what makes him a collector’s dream. Whether you’re a collector, dealer, or just love behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is packed with must-know info from the world of sports memorabilia!

🎧 Tune in now and get the...

In this episode of Spring Training Ink Report, we break down all the highs and surprises from the autograph scene! From snagging signatures from legends like George Brett and Rollie Fingers to unexpected events, we cover it all. Plus, we take a detour from the signings to hit up Lifetime Fitness—because even collectors need to stay in shape—and dive into some great eats at True Food Kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned autograph hunter or just love hearing behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is packed with fun recaps and collector insigh...

Ever wondered what happens when your long-awaited package seems stuck in delivery limbo? On this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we take matters into our own hands—literally—by using an AirTag to track down our elusive UPS driver.

From refreshing the tracking page a hundred times to watching the driver’s route unfold in real time, we share the wild ups and downs of our quest to intercept our package before it disappears into the delivery abyss. Will we finally get our shipment, or will we be left chasing brown trucks all over town?

T...

Luka Doncic is heading to the Lakers! But what does this blockbuster trade mean for his sports cards and autographs? In this episode, we break down how Luka’s rookie cards could see a short-term spike as Lakers fans and collectors rush to invest. Will his autographs hold steady, or could they see an increase in demand? And most importantly, how much of Luka’s long-term value depends on winning an NBA championship—and potentially an NBA Finals MVP? We’ll discuss the factors that could make or break his memorabilia market and whether now is the time to buy, sel...

In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we dive into the fascinating world of Super Bowl champion autographs and whether they truly go up in value as much as you’d expect. While a big win might seem like a surefire way to boost an athlete’s autograph prices, the reality is often more complex. We’ll explore why most Super Bowl victories only result in a modest bump in value and what factors really drive collector demand.

From legendary players to unique moments in sports history, certain scenarios—like the Buffalo Bills finally breaking their Su...

In this episode of The Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we dive into the must-know strategies for protecting your high-value collectibles when sending them to autograph signings. Titled "Preserve the Prestige: Tips for Sending High Valued Items Safely to Autograph Signings," we cover the essential steps to ensure your items return in pristine condition. Learn why taking detailed photos before shipping and upon delivery is a crucial part of the process, how to properly package your collectibles for maximum protection, and the importance of clear documentation. Whether you're sending a rare rookie card, a signed jersey, or a...

 Ever wondered what really goes into a Stephen Curry autograph signing? Join us for this behind-the-scenes look at the late-night grind that makes these events possible. From late-night prep work lasting until 4 AM to organizing hundreds of items with custom inscriptions, this episode dives into the meticulous logistics of it all. We’ll talk about the adrenaline-filled road trip to the signing, what happens when you finally arrive, and the unforgettable experience of watching a legend like Curry put pen to memorabilia. Whether you’re a fan, collector, or just curious about the autograph world, this episode will give you a...

 In this episode of Signing Day Memories, I share my unforgettable experience hosting a Freddie Freeman autograph signing with my dad. From the excitement of meeting one of baseball’s biggest stars to the behind-the-scenes chaos of organizing the event, it was a day full of fun and learning. Listen as I recount how my dad stepped in to help ship back items like a pro, and the unexpected joy of playing with a friendly dog at the signing. This episode is all about family, teamwork, and the special moments that make events like these so memorable. Don’t miss...

Ever wondered why some autographs carry eye-popping price tags? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of autograph pricing and reveal why a signature from legends like Tom Brady or Shohei Ohtani can cost a fortune. It’s not as simple as just the athlete’s fame – the final price is often shaped by a mix of athlete contracts, signing demand, competition among memorabilia companies, and even event logistics.

We’ll uncover who really sets the price, and why it’s not usually the athlete deciding. Instead, companies negotiate huge contracts with top athletes, setting prices to...