In a significant announcement for the basketball community, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame unveiled its list of finalists for the Class of 2026 on Wednesday, spotlighting a distinguished group comprising 21 nominees from both women’s and men’s basketball, including players, coaches, and referees. Among the most prominent figures are the celebrated WNBA veterans Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne, whose illustrious careers have etched their names into the annals of the sport.
Trailblazers of Women’s Basketball
Candace Parker, who concluded her professional playing career in 2024, stands out not only as a two-time MVP but also as the sole WNBA athlete to have secured championship titles with three distinct franchises. Her remarkable feat extends further, as she remains the only player in the league’s history to have clinched both the Rookie of the Year and MVP awards within the same season, accomplishing this rare double in 2008. Parker’s enduring influence on the game, underscored by her versatility and leadership, has positioned her as a natural candidate for the Hall of Fame.
Equally noteworthy is Elena Delle Donne, a fellow two-time MVP and retired WNBA star, who has made history as the first player in the league to achieve significant milestones that have redefined excellence in women’s basketball. Her career, marked by both individual accolades and impressive on-court performances, complements the distinguished list of finalists vying for induction into one of basketball’s most prestigious halls.
The 2026 class represents a diverse spectrum of basketball contributors, reflecting the sport’s evolving dynamics and the expanding recognition of both female and male figures who have shaped its trajectory. This announcement by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, reported by our news outlet, underscores the ongoing celebration of basketball’s heritage and the athletes who have propelled it forward.