The anticipation surrounding the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is palpable as the list of finalists for the 2024 class has been unveiled. Among the most prominent names are NBA stars Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard, both of whom have left indelible marks on the sport. Accompanying them are iconic women’s basketball figures such as Sue Bird, Maya Moore, and Sylvia Fowles. This diverse group not only represents excellence on the court but also embodies the various ways athletes can influence the game and society beyond basketball.
Carmelo Anthony, a 10-time NBA All-Star, stands as a testament to scoring prowess and competitive spirit. Finishing his career ranked 10th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with 28,289 points, his legacy includes a national championship with Syracuse in 2003. Meanwhile, Dwight Howard’s legacy is intricately woven into the fabric of defensive basketball. With three consecutive NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards from 2009 to 2011, he revolutionized the center position and earned accolades that cemented his status as one of basketball’s greats.
The 2008 U.S. Olympic men’s basketball team, which boasts an impressive roster of talent, is also highlighted in this year’s nominations. This team played a crucial role in restoring the United States’ basketball supremacy on the global stage after experiencing shortcomings in previous international competitions. Comprising legends like Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade, this Olympic squad is synonymous with excellence. Under the leadership of Jerry Colangelo, the team not only secured the gold medal but also showcased the depth of talent present in American basketball.
Both Howard and Anthony’s contributions to this elite team symbolize a turning point in U.S. basketball history, as their performances helped secure a gold medal that reinstated national pride after a bronze finish in Athens just four years prior. The competitive environment cultivated by this historic team also helped raise the profile of basketball globally, inspiring a new generation of players.
Trailblazing Women in Basketball
On the women’s side, the nominations of Sue Bird and Maya Moore are fitting tributes to their unparalleled careers and contributions to the sport. Bird, heralded as one of the greatest point guards in history, amassed two NCAA championships with UConn alongside four WNBA titles with the Seattle Storm. Her playmaking abilities and leadership made her a lynchpin for every team she was a part of, redefining what it means to be a floor general in women’s basketball.
Maya Moore, who made headlines both for her athletic accomplishments and her advocacy, won two national championships at UConn and four WNBA championships with the Minnesota Lynx. Her decision to retire at the peak of her career to focus on criminal justice reform adds an influential narrative to her legacy, highlighting that athletes can wield their platforms for social change.
Sylvia Fowles further complements this elite group with her grounding presence. Having led LSU to multiple Final Fours and earning WNBA MVP honors in 2017, Fowles is a key figure in transforming the perception of women’s basketball, showing that excellence knows no gender.
Adding further depth to the Hall of Fame finalists are esteemed coaches Billy Donovan and Mark Few. Donovan’s resume, featuring back-to-back NCAA championships with the Florida Gators, showcases his ability to nurture talent and lead teams to victory. Now coaching in the NBA, he has translated his successful collegiate methods to professional play. Meanwhile, Mark Few’s sustained excellence at Gonzaga has made him the winningest active coach by percentage, proving that consistent success can emerge from programs that traditionally may not receive the spotlight of larger schools.
This year’s list also includes various figures from different realms of basketball—longtime referee Danny Crawford, former NBA player Marques Johnson, and Israeli coaching legend Tal Brody, each of whom has played vital roles in the game’s evolution.
The path to Hall of Fame induction is not as simple as one might think; nominees must garner votes from a distinguished panel of 24 voters. To achieve election, a candidate needs at least 18 votes, a task indicative of just how competitive and esteemed this recognition is. The class of 2024 will be announced on April 5 in San Antonio during the NCAA men’s Final Four, while the enshrinement weekend is set for September 5-6.
As the basketball community eagerly awaits the final decisions, one thing is certain: this year’s finalists exemplify a wealth of talent, character, and dedication that transcends their respective sports, leaving an enduring impact on the game and its legacy.