WNBA stars Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne top Naismith HOF 2026 candidate list appeared first on Clutch Points. Add ClutchPoints as Favorite source by clicking here.
The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame has released its list of potential 2026 inductees, and many women’s basketball stars have been selected. Most notably, former WNBA superstars Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne were selected for the first time from a group of outstanding players eligible for recognition.
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Parker built one of the most influential careers in women’s basketball history through her skill versatility, longevity and winning impact. Parker led Tennessee to back-to-back national championships and won various honors before becoming the first player to win WNBA Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. She added numerous accolades in the W in addition to winning championships with three different franchises.
Delle Donne’s career stands out for his efficiency in scoring, his leadership and his achievements both at the collegiate and professional level. Her skills translated perfectly to the WNBA, allowing her to win two MVP awards and the Washington Mystics’ first-ever championship in 2019. Delle Donne’s ability to dominate games offensively, marked by her historic and exclusive membership in the 50-40-90 club, is only a small part of what defines her greatness.
John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, made a statement with the announcement. Doleva’s words perfectly explained why Parker, Delle Donne and the other candidates deserved their consideration for the Hall.
“The candidates for the Class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” Doleva said. “Through defining performances, influential leadership and achievements that have helped elevate the sport on the national and international stage, this year’s ballot recognizes those whose legacies continue to shape the way the game is played, coached and celebrated.
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Other notable candidates include Molly Bolin, the first member of the Women’s Professional Basketball League, Jennifer Azzi, a member of the 1996 gold medal-winning United States Women’s National Team, and the C. Vivian Stringer-led 1982 Cheyney State team that played in and lost the first-ever NCAA DI Women’s National Championship game.
The Hall of Famer will most likely announce his list of finalists during the NBA All-Star Weekend in February. The 2026 class will then be revealed during the NCAA Final Four on April 4, while the ceremony will take place the weekend of August 14-15 at Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut and Symphony Hall in Massachusetts.
