BREAKING: The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has just announced a stellar lineup of first-time nominees for the Class of 2026, featuring basketball icons like Blake Griffin, Candace Parker, and Jamal Crawford. This significant announcement was made earlier today during ESPN’s NBA Live show, igniting excitement among fans and players alike.
Among the notable candidates is the historic 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team, which clinched gold at the Atlanta Games. Other first-time nominees include the legendary Elena Delle Donne and Joe Johnson as players, with Mike D’Antoni recognized as a contributor. A total of nearly 200 players and teams are under consideration this year, showcasing the rich history and talent within the sport.
John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Hall of Fame, stated, “The candidates for the Class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball.” He emphasized the importance of their defining performances and leadership that have elevated the sport both nationally and internationally.
Finalists for the Hall of Fame will be revealed during the NBA All-Star weekend in February 2026, with the official induction ceremony scheduled for April 4, 2026, at the NCAA Final Four. The enshrinement weekend is set for August 14-15, 2026, at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut and at Symphony Hall in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Returning nominees include notable figures like Gonzaga coach Mark Few, NBA legends Marques Johnson and Buck Williams, and Doc Rivers, the only active coach with over 1,000 wins who has yet to be inducted. Notable players Amar’e Stoudemire and celebrated broadcaster Marv Albert are also back on the ballot.
Teams under consideration include the legendary 1936, 1972, and 1976 U.S. Olympic men’s teams, the 1982 Cheyney State team that made history in women’s NCAA basketball, and the 1963 Loyola Chicago men’s team, which broke racial barriers by featuring multiple Black starters.
This year’s nominees represent a diverse array of contributors and athletes whose legacies continue to inspire new generations. With the Hall of Fame set to celebrate these incredible talents, fans and players are encouraged to stay tuned for the upcoming announcements, as the anticipation builds for the Class of 2026.
As the basketball community rallies around these nominees, the excitement for the upcoming season and the potential for new legends to be enshrined is palpable. Share your thoughts on social media as we await the final ballot and celebrate the contributions of these remarkable individuals to the sport of basketball.
