The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame has announced it’s annual list of eligible candidates on Friday, including some interesting names receiving their first nominations.
Longtime Clippers star Blake Griffin is one of the first-time nominees, along with Clippers teammate and three-time Sixth Man of the Year Jamal Crawford.
Seven-time all-star Joe Johnson is the third and final former NBA player on the list of new nominees.
As for the WNBA, former two-time MVPs Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne are nominated for the first time.
Rounding out the new nominees are former NBA/NCAA coaches Mike D’Antoni, Bruce Pearl, and Kelvin Sampson, as well as the entire 1996 U.S. Women’s National Basketball team.
Marv Albert, Mark Few, Doc Rivers, and Amar’e Stoudemire are some notable returning eligible candidates.
“The candidates for the Class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in a statement. “This year’s ballot recognizes those whose legacy continues to shape how the game is played, coached, and celebrated.”
The Class of 2026 will be unveiled during a broadcast on Saturday, April 4, coinciding with the NCAA’s Final Four Weekend.