Hall of Fame Celebrates a New Generation
The upcoming ceremony in Knoxville will honor a distinguished group of players, coaches and analysts whose contributions have reshaped women’s basketball over the past two decades.
Candace Parker, a two‑time Olympic gold medalist and former Tennessee standout, is set to be enshrined after leading the Lady Vols to back‑to‑back national titles and capturing two WNBA MVP awards.
Elena Delle Donne, the three‑time CAA Player of the Year and No. 2 overall pick in the 2013 draft, joins Parker as a player inductee, her career marked by scoring prowess and relentless competitiveness.
The class also includes Cheryl Reeve, the architect of four Minnesota Lynx championships and a four‑time Coach of the Year, as well as longtime administrator Barbara Kennedy‑Dixon, whose behind‑the‑scenes work at Clemson helped pave the way for future leaders.
Analyst Doris Burke, now a full‑time ESPN commentator, and former professional Amaya Valdemoro, a key member of the Houston Comets’ three‑peat title run, round out the roster of honorees.
International voices such as French scoring legend Isabelle Fijalkowski, who amassed 2,562 points for her national team, and longtime collegiate coach Kim Muhl, who retired after 37 years at Kirkwood Community College, underscore the global reach of the game.
The induction not only celebrates individual excellence but also reflects the sport’s expanding footprint, from university programs across the United States to professional leagues worldwide.