Knoxville, Tennessee — The Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame welcomed a distinguished group of pioneers this weekend, honoring careers that have reshaped the sport.
Candace Parker, a former Tennessee standout who later became a WNBA star, was celebrated for her three national championships with the Volunteers and a professional résumé that includes two MVP awards and three league titles.
Elena Delle Donne, the two‑time WNBA MVP and the second overall pick in the 2013 draft, was recognized for her Olympic gold medal performances and her impact as a scoring phenom.
Legacy of the Class
The ceremony also spotlighted Amaya Valdemoro, whose role in the Houston Comets’ three‑peat helped cement her status as a EuroLeague standout, and Isabelle Fijalkowski, who emerged as France’s all‑time leading scorer for the national team.
Cheryl Reeve, a four‑time Coach of the Year who guided the Minnesota Lynx to four championships, was honored for her dual success as a player and architect of modern women’s basketball.
Kim Muhl, who retired after 37 years with 1,108 career wins at Kirkwood Community College, and Doris Burke, who transitioned from a Big East analyst to a full‑time NBA commentator for ESPN, illustrated the sport’s expanding reach beyond the court.
Barbara Kennedy‑Dixon, a former Clemson player and longtime administrator, and Chamique Holdsclaw, a trailblazing star whose college career at Tennessee set new standards, rounded out the class with contributions that span administration, advocacy and on‑court excellence.
The induction marks the latest chapter in a story that began with early trailblazers and continues to inspire the next generation, as both Parker and Delle Donne are slated to be enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame later this summer.