Blake Griffin headlines newest list of Hall of Fame finalists

The newest list of finalists for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2026 has been revealed, with legends like Blake Griffin and Candace Parker headlining.

The stacked roster also includes longtime WNBA star Elena Delle Donne, NBA veteran Amar’e Stoudemire and longtime NBA head coach Mike D’Antoni.

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While all 21 of the finalists deserved their nomination, their spot in the HOF is now in the hands of the Honors Committee, which is set to announce the new class on April 4.

The finalists are:

• Joey Crawford (Referee)
• Mark Few (Coach)
• Blake Griffin (Player)
• Kevin Johnson (Player)
• Gary McKnight (Coach)
• Dick Motta (Coach)
• Doc Rivers (Coach)
• Kelvin Sampson (Coach)
• Amar’e Stoudemire (Player)
• Jerry Welsh (Coach)
• Buck Williams (Player)
• 1996 United States Women’s National Team
• Jennifer Azzi (Player)
• Elena Delle Donne (Player)
• Chamique Holdsclaw (Player)
• Candace Parker (Player)
• Molly Bolin-Kazmer (Player)
• Dušan Ivković (Coach)
• Tal Brody (Player)
• Mike D’Antoni (Coach)
• Marques Johnson (Player)

James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker

About the Author Published Feb 11, 2026

JAMES PARKER

James Parker is a sports reporter and writer for Ball Exclusives. With a bachelor's degree earned at the age of 19, he’s spent years working as a sports journalist, including an award-winning stint at The Appalachian. He has never used AI for his work in any way, shape or form.