A night of legacy and love
The 2026 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame ceremony turned the spotlight on a generation that reshaped women’s basketball, blending triumphs on the court with intimate reflections off it.
Candace Parker, a first‑ballot inductee, took the stage to recount three WNBA titles, two Olympic gold medals and a career defined by versatility and leadership, while Elena Delle Donne followed with a historic milestone — becoming the first player to join the 50‑40‑90 club in league history.
Delle Donne’s address wove personal gratitude into statistical achievement, thanking actor Larry David for his unexpected support and honoring her sister Lizzie’s quiet strength, a narrative that resonated with many who see sport as a mirror of family resilience.
The class also celebrated Joey Crawford, whose 2,500 NBA games include 50 Finals assignments, and Doc Rivers, whose 1,194 wins place him among the most victorious coaches in basketball history; both men spoke of mentorship and the pathways they forged for future officials and players.
Mark Few, who has guided Gonzaga to consistent NCAA tournament appearances since 1999, was recognized for his sustained excellence, while the 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s team was lauded for three decades of dominance that paved the way for today’s stars.
Chamique Holdsclaw’s 11‑year WNBA career and her role in Tennessee’s three straight NCAA championships were highlighted, as was the memory of Pat Summitt, the legendary coach who mentored Holdsclaw and battled Alzheimer’s with public grace.
The ceremony closed with a poignant acknowledgment of the romance that blossomed 27 years ago between Parker and Delle Donne, a love story that began on the court and continues to inspire both their personal and professional journeys.