Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2026 Contenders
A notable roster of contenders has emerged for the 2026 class of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, featuring prominent figures such as Blake Griffin, Jamal Crawford, Joe Johnson, Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, Mike D’Antoni, and Kelvin Sampson. This list, announced on December 19, 2025, showcases both new candidates and some familiar names from past nominations, including Doc Rivers, Amar’e Stoudemire, and Shawn Marion.
Induction Timeline
As the process unfolds, finalists will be determined on February 9, leading to the formal induction announcement slated for April 4.
Highlighting Newcomers
Among the newcomers, Jamal Crawford stands out as a three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year, currently lending his expertise as an analyst for NBC Sports and its NBA game broadcasts. Meanwhile, the case for Blake Griffin appears particularly strong; he was drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Clippers in 2009 and quickly transformed the team’s identity. Not only did he claim the Rookie of the Year title in 2011, but he also earned six All-Star selections and five All-NBA honors during his career, becoming a central figure in the Lob City era. Currently, Griffin offers his insights as an analyst for Amazon Prime’s NBA coverage.
Expectations for Induction
Expectations are high for figures like Griffin, Parker, and Delle Donne, who are anticipated to garner strong support for induction into this prestigious hall. Their careers have made significant impacts in the realm of basketball, suggesting their paths to the Hall of Fame are nearly assured.
