Kentucky legends and villains at the 2026 National Sports Convention
The 46th Annual National Sports Collectors Convention is heading to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, from July 29 to August 2, 2026. This massive event covers 500,000 square feet and features more than 600 dealers. For collectors and sports fans, it is the biggest week of the year for memorabilia.
Kentucky sports fans making the trip to Illinois have several familiar faces to watch for at the autograph pavilion. Phil Simms, a Louisville native and Super Bowl MVP, is headlining the event. His presence provides a strong local connection for football fans looking for authentic signatures.
Other notable figures are also appearing, though some bring a more complicated history for Wildcats fans. Otis Wilson, a Louisville Cardinals standout and key member of the 1985 Chicago Bears, is scheduled to appear. Christian Laettner, long remembered in Lexington for his role in the 1992 NCAA regional final, is also on the list of signers. These appearances offer a chance to engage with players who defined major moments in college sports history.
Beyond autographs, the convention floor is designed for buying, selling, and grading. With hundreds of dealers on-site, attendees are encouraged to bring their own collections for appraisal or trade. Whether you are hunting for vintage cards or modern collectibles, the scale of this show provides a rare opportunity to access a vast inventory of sports history.