Blake Griffin, Candace Parker, Jamal Crawford Lead HOF Nominees

BREAKING: The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has just announced its latest nominees for the Class of 2026, featuring a star-studded lineup including Blake Griffin, Candace Parker, and Jamal Crawford. This exciting news comes as basketball fans await the enshrinement ceremony scheduled for August 14 and 15, 2026 at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Among the notable first-time nominees revealed on Friday during ESPN’s NBA Live show are the legendary 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team and influential coaches like Bruce Pearl and Kelvin Sampson. Also featured are celebrated players Elena Delle Donne and Joe Johnson, alongside renowned contributor Mike D’Antoni.

This year’s ballot is remarkable, showcasing nearly 200 players and teams with significant contributions to the sport. Among them, former finalist Jennifer Azzi, a member of the 1996 gold-medal winning team, returns as a nominee this year, aiming for the honor once again.

“We are thrilled to present a class of candidates who have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” stated John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “Through defining performances and influential leadership, this ballot recognizes those whose legacy continues to shape how the game is played and celebrated.”

The Hall will announce the finalists during the upcoming NBA All-Star weekend in February, with the final class unveiled on April 4, 2026, at the NCAA Final Four. Fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating the enshrinement weekend, which promises to celebrate the rich history and future of basketball.

Returning finalists from previous years include esteemed figures such as Mark Few, Marques Johnson, and Buck Williams, as well as coaching legend Doc Rivers, who remains the only NBA coach with over 1,000 wins not yet inducted.

Additional nominees to watch include Amar’e Stoudemire, iconic broadcaster Marv Albert, and the historic 1936, 1972, and 1976 U.S. Olympic men’s teams. The 1982 Cheyney State team, coached by C. Vivian Stringer, which famously competed in the first NCAA Division I women’s national championship, also stands out among the nominees.

This is a critical moment for basketball, with the potential to honor those who have significantly impacted the sport. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates as the Hall of Fame prepares for this momentous occasion.

As the basketball community buzzes with excitement over these nominees, the countdown to the enshrinement weekend has begun. Will your favorite player or team make it to the Hall of Fame? Share your thoughts and predictions now!