WNBA Icons Lead 2026 Hall of Fame Class

The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is set to welcome a prestigious group of inductees for the Class of 2026. Sources confirmed to ESPN's Shams Charania that WNBA legends Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne will headline the upcoming induction ceremony.

The Decorated Career of Candace Parker

Candace Parker’s inclusion follows a career defined by historic achievements. She remains the only player in WNBA history to secure both the Rookie of the Year and MVP awards within the same season.

Her impact extends well beyond the WNBA, highlighted by:

  • Two national championships at the University of Tennessee.
  • Two Olympic Gold medals.
  • Two WNBA MVP awards.
  • A historic high school dunk contest victory at the McDonald's All-American Game.

Elena Delle Donne’s Historic Impact

Joining Parker is fellow two-time WNBA MVP Elena Delle Donne. She is celebrated for her offensive efficiency, becoming the first player to achieve a 50/40/90 season—shooting 50% from the field, 40% from three-point range, and 90% from the free-throw line.

Delle Donne also secured a WNBA championship in 2019, leading the Washington Mystics to the title.

NBA Stars and Coaching Greats Inducted

The Class of 2026 also features significant figures from the NBA, including former star Amar'e Stoudemire and veteran coach Doc Rivers.

Amar'e Stoudemire and Doc Rivers

Amar'e Stoudemire, a six-time All-Star, enters the Hall after a 14-year career. Entering the league directly from high school, he was named the 2003 Rookie of the Year and spent eight seasons in Phoenix, where he was known for his elite pick-and-roll partnership with Steve Nash. His career also included stints in New York, Dallas, and Miami.

Coach Doc Rivers will also be honored for his long-standing career on the sidelines. With 1,191 coaching wins, Rivers currently ranks eighth on the NBA’s all-time coaching victories list.