Delle Donne, Parker named 2026 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame finalists
The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame has announced its finalists for the Class of 2026, and former WNBA MVPs and champions Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne have been named as finalists.
“This year’s group of Finalists represents the full scope of basketball’s impact, from the professional and collegiate ranks to high school, international play, officiating, and innovation,” said Jerry Colangelo, Chairman of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “Their achievements span championships, historic milestones, and a lasting influence on how the game is played, taught, and experienced around the world. Each Finalist has made a notable contribution to basketball’s growth and excellence, and their collective legacy speaks to the power of the sport.”
Molly Bolin-Kazmer was also selected as a finalist by the Women’s Veteran Committee. The full list of finalists selected by the Women’s Committee includes:
The 1996 United States Women’s National Team won a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Atlanta with a record of 8-0, winning by an average of more than 30 points per game. The team was coached by Tara VanDerveer and was stacked with star players that would eventually dominate in the WNBA, such as Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes, Dawn Staley, Teresa Edwards, Rebecca Lobo and Katrina McClain.
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