A Hall of Fame Induction Like No Other
Mark Few, the longtime architect of the Gonzaga Bulldogs' dynasty, will be enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class. The announcement came alongside details of a two‑day ceremony that will open on August 14 at the Mohegan Sun arena in Connecticut, a venue that has become synonymous with basketball’s biggest celebrations.
The honor will be highlighted by the presence of three legendary figures who will present Few’s induction. John Stockton, the all‑time NBA assist leader and a Gonzaga alumnus, will join John Calipari, the winningest coach in Kentucky history, and Grant Hill, who served as managing director of the USA men’s national team from 2021 through 2024.
Stockton’s connection to Gonzaga runs deep; he starred for the Bulldogs from 1980 to 1984 before embarking on a 19‑year NBA career that cemented his status as one of the game’s greatest point guards. His partnership with Few on the court and later as mentors has been a cornerstone of the sport’s modern narrative.
Calipari and Few have shared a professional relationship that spans decades, meeting six times during their respective coaching tenures. Their mutual respect and competitive spirit have produced some of the most memorable matchups in college basketball, underscoring a friendship built on shared ambition and innovation.
Grant Hill’s role as managing director of USA Basketball from 2021 to 2024 placed him at the helm of the national program during a period that culminated in a gold medal at the 2024 Winter Olympics. His involvement in Few’s presentation ties together a thread of leadership that has shaped both collegiate and international success.
Few’s induction reflects more than just a stellar win‑loss record; it acknowledges his role in elevating Gonzaga to a national powerhouse and his contributions to Team USA’s international triumphs. The ceremony will not only celebrate his coaching achievements but also his influence on player development and the broader basketball community.
The upcoming event will be held over two days in Connecticut, where the Hall of Fame will also recognize the broader 2026 class. Fans and stakeholders alike anticipate a heartfelt tribute that will blend personal anecdotes, statistical milestones, and the enduring legacy of a coach who has reshaped modern basketball.