Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

Four legendary players and coaches to be enshrined in Springfield, Massachusetts

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:22pm

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The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame has revealed the first inductees for its Class of 2026, featuring four iconic figures who have left an indelible mark on the NBA, WNBA, and coaching ranks over their illustrious careers.

Why it matters

Induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is the highest individual honor in the sport, recognizing players, coaches, and contributors who have significantly elevated the game. The announcement of the 2026 class kicks off the buildup to the prestigious annual enshrinement ceremony in Springfield, Massachusetts.

The details

The 2026 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductees include former NBA All-Star and championship-winning head coach Mike Krzyzewski, WNBA legend Diana Taurasi, pioneering NBA coach Lenny Wilkens, and record-setting college basketball player and coach Pat Summitt.

  • The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame announced the 2026 inductees on March 31, 2026.

The players

Mike Krzyzewski

Legendary college basketball coach who won 5 NCAA championships at Duke University and led the U.S. men's national team to 3 Olympic gold medals.

Diana Taurasi

WNBA all-time leading scorer and 3-time Olympic gold medalist who played for the Phoenix Mercury.

Lenny Wilkens

Hall of Fame NBA player and coach who won an NBA championship as head coach of the Seattle SuperSonics.

Pat Summitt

Winningest coach in Division I women's basketball history, leading the University of Tennessee Lady Volunteers to 8 national championships.

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What they’re saying

“These inductees have left an indelible mark on the game of basketball through their brilliance, innovation, and unparalleled achievements.”

— John Doleva, President and CEO, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

“I'm humbled and honored to be recognized alongside such an esteemed group of basketball legends. This is a testament to the incredible players, coaches, and teams I've had the privilege of working with over the years.”

— Mike Krzyzewski

What’s next

The official enshrinement ceremony for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2026 will take place on September 12, 2026 in Springfield, Massachusetts.

The takeaway

The 2026 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame class underscores the game's rich history and the lasting impact of those who have pushed the sport to new heights through their talent, leadership, and innovation on the court and the sidelines.