Robert Brewer/MDN This authenticated Tom Brady autographed retro New England Patriots helmet is on sale at the Sports Shaq in Minot for $2,699.

This summer, a new sports collectible store has opened its doors in Minot.

The Sports Shaq, located at 924 37th Avenue SW, has products for sale that include sports trading cards, autographed helmets and photos. Business owner Rachael Nadeau, a Rugby native who has lived in Minot for the past 15 years, came up with the name Sports Shaq as an ode to former NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal. The store began operation on June 15.

Nadeau, who grew up as a fan of the Los Angeles Lakers, says she was motivated to open the store in an effort to make an impact in an underserved niche market. The business owner believes there is greater value in giving customers the opportunity to see the merchandise in person before purchasing as opposed to buying from online retailers.

“I’ve been a collector all my life, so I felt the need for a shop like this in Minot since there wasn’t one here,” she tells The Minot Daily News. “I had a big collection to start with, so a lot of the single cards in the store are from my own personal collection. I want kids and collectors to have a place where they can touch, feel and see the cards, especially the single cards. It’s really hard to find a place like this.”

The Sports Shaq has single rookie cards for sale featuring legendary players such as Derek Jeter and Kobe Bryant, as well as current young stars including Zion Williamson. Sealed wax products containing multiple cards from various are also available for purchase. Among the signed memorabilia, autographed helmets from Patrick Mahomes and Tom Brady are on display at the shop. The Brady helmet, of the retro New England Patriots variety, is the most expensive item currently listed at $2,699.

Open Tuesday through Saturday starting at 10 a.m. each day, the Sports Shaq also plans to have a golf simulator this fall for youth and adults, as well as lessons and tournaments for table pool. Custom jersey framing services are also available for fanatics who want to preserve their most cherished sports uniforms. Products and accessories from Green Mountain Grills are among the store’s inventory as well.

According to Nadeau, the Sports Shaq also has plans to broadcast live box breaks online at facebook.com/thesportsshaq. She says that products from a wide variety of sports will be part of these breaks.

“Sealed wax is our most popular item right now. We have cards from football, baseball, basketball, soccer, UFC and Pokemon. People can follow our Facebook page for all the latest updates,” she said.