Basketball Hall of Fame 2026: Candace Parker, Delle Donne, Stoudemire Headline Star-Studded Inductee Class

The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has officially announced its Class of 2026, recognizing some of the most influential figures in basketball history. This year’s class features game-changing stars and coaches whose legacies have shaped the NBA and WNBA, headlined by Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, Amar'e Stoudemire, Doc Rivers, and Mike D'Antoni.

According to announcements from both the Hall of Fame and league officials, the 2026 class is celebrated for its diversity of accomplishment—spanning dominant playing careers, championship moments, and trailblazing coaching innovations.

• Candace Parker is widely considered one of the greatest women’s basketball players of all time, with multiple WNBA championships, MVP awards, and Olympic gold medals over her storied career.
• Elena Delle Donne has also left an indelible mark on the game, earning MVP honors and leading her teams deep into the playoffs with her versatile scoring and leadership.
• Amar'e Stoudemire was a six-time NBA All-Star and the 2003 NBA Rookie of the Year, known for his high-flying dunks and dynamic scoring ability during his tenure with the Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks.
• Doc Rivers has made his name as both a tenacious NBA player and as a championship-winning head coach, most notably guiding the Boston Celtics to the 2008 NBA title.
• Mike D'Antoni is credited with revolutionizing NBA offense through his "Seven Seconds or Less" system, which helped redefine the pace and space era and produced record-setting offenses with the Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets.

The Hall of Fame’s announcement reflects the broad impact of this class, spanning men’s and women’s basketball, and bridging generations of fans. The official induction ceremony is expected to attract a wide array of current and former stars, honoring the legacies of these influential figures who have each transformed the sport in unique ways.

Details surrounding the induction weekend schedule, including the enshrinement ceremony and related festivities, will be released by the Hall of Fame in the coming weeks. The celebration promises to be a highlight on the basketball calendar, bringing together legends from across the sport to honor the 2026 inductees.