Six-time All-Star forward Blake Griffin and two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker are among the notable first-time nominees for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Griffin rose to stardom after going first overall to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2009. His jaw-dropping athleticism and highlight-reel dunks headlined the Clippers’ “Lob City” era, during which they made six straight playoff appearances.
Griffin won the 2011 NBA Rookie of the Year award after sitting out the previous campaign with a knee injury. He was a five-time All-NBA selection and sits second on the Clippers’ all-time scoring list.
Parker was also a top draft selection following a standout collegiate career with Tennessee. She spent most of her WNBA career with the Los Angeles Sparks, winning Finals MVP honors during the team’s 2016 title run.
Parker led the WNBA in rebounding on three occasions and tallied the most blocks twice. She was a seven-time All-Star, 10-time All-WNBA selection, and two-time WNBA All-Defensive second-team member.
Jamal Crawford, Joe Johnson, and Elena Delle Donne are the other new players to make the shortlist.
Ex-Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl and current Houston lead man Kelvin Sampson are the only additional coaches who will receive consideration for this year’s Hall of Fame class.
Mike D’Antoni, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, earned his first nomination as a contributor.
The 1996 U.S. women’s basketball team is also newly eligible for induction.
“The candidates for the class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame president and CEO John L. Doleva said in a statement.
“Through defining performances, influential leadership, and achievements that helped elevate the sport on the national and international stage, this year’s ballot recognizes those whose legacy continues to shape how the game is played, coached, and celebrated.”
Marv Albert, Mark Few, Doc Rivers, and Amar’e Stoudemire headline the returning eligible candidates.