The city of Indianapolis was the setting chosen to reveal the new members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, a 2026 generation made up of nine figures that cover different stages and roles within the sport. The announcement was made in the context of the NCAA Men’s Closing Four and was broadcast live on ESPN2.
The class includes notable names such as Doc Rivers, Set up Few and Candace Parker, along with other personalities who have left their mark both on and off the field. Entrance ceremonies are scheduled for August 14 and 15, with events in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Uncasville, Connecticut.
Hall of Fame President and CEO John L. Doleva highlighted the collective impact of the group. “The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is proud to welcome the Class of 2026, a group that reflects the best this sport has to offer,” he said. “From a referee who set the standard for four decades, to coaches who built dynasties at all levels, players who redefined their positions and a women’s team that helped launch an entire league”.
Trajectories that marked an era on and off the field
Among the selected ones appears Doc Riverswho has more than 1,180 wins in 27 seasons as a coach in the NBA, with stints with teams like Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers and Milwaukee Bucks. As a player, he was also an All-Star during his 13-year career.
Set up Fewfor his part, has built one of the most consistent careers in college basketball, leading Gonzaga to 26 consecutive appearances in the NCAA tournament and accumulating 773 wins. His winning percentage places him as the most successful active coach in that field.
In the category of players, figures such as Amar’e Stoudemiresix-time NBA All-Star, and Candace Parker one of the most successful in WNBA history, with three championships and two MVP awards. Parker also achieved a unique distinction by being named Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player in the same season.
Recognitions of historical figures and global contributions
The list is completed with referee Joey Crawford, who coached for 39 seasons in the NBA, as well as Elena Delle Donne and Chamique Holdsclaw, leaders of American women’s basketball. Also included was the United States women’s team that won Olympic gold in Atlanta 1996 with an undefeated record.
In the contributions section, Mike D’Antoni He was recognized for his influence on the evolution of the modern game, promoting an offensive style based on pace, space and efficiency that left its mark in both the NBA and Europe.
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