Basketball legend Candace Parker is headlining the 2026 candidates for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Along with Parker, Blake Griffin, Jamal Crawford, the 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team, Bruce Pearl, and Kelvin Sampson
Also, Elena Delle Donne and Joe Johnson as players, and Mike D’Antoni as a contributor.
200 players, teams, and contributors were on the list unveiled by the Hall on ESPN’s “NBA Today.”
John L. Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, lauded the 2026 candidates.
“The candidates for the class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” Doleva said. “Through defining performances, influential leadership, and achievements that helped elevate the sport on the national. And the unternational stage. This year’s ballot recognizes those whose legacy continues to shape how the game is played, coached, and celebrated.”
Finalists a awill be nnounced at NBA All-Star Weekend in February. The official 2026 class will be announced on April 4 at the NCAA Final Four. Enshrinement will be held on Aug. 14 and 15 at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut, and at Symphony Hall in Springfield, Massachusetts.
Parker is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. In her 16-year career, Parker won WNBA titles, two MVP awards, 10 All-WNBA nods, and seven All-Star appearances. She starred for the Los Angeles Sparks, Chicago Sky, and Las Vegas Aces. Parker also led the Tennessee Lady Vols to national titles in 2007 and 2008.
Griffin was one of the most exciting players of his error. In 2011, Griffin won the NBA Rookie of the Year award and the Slam Dunk Contest. He was also the first rookie to be named an All-Star since 2003. Griffin earned five All-NBA selections with career averages of 19.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game.