As required by the regulations, Parker, retired since the 2018-2019 season with Charlotte, had to wait three years following the end of his career to find himself eligible. He might enter the Hall of Fame along with two other legends of European basketball, also retired since 2019: Dirk Nowitzki, 21 seasons with Dallas and an NBA title (2011), and Pau Gasol, double NBA champion with the Lakers (2008 , 2010) alongside Kobe Bryant. The names of the new members of the “Hall” will be announced on April 1 for a ceremony scheduled for August 12 in Springfield.
Popovich also in the running
Dwyane Wade, three times titled with the Miami Heat (2006, 2012 and 2013), also appears in this list like Gregg Popovich. The San Antonio Spurs coach, who had so far declined his entry into the Hall of Fame, is nominated for the first time, as he plays what might be his last season at the head of the Texas franchise. He also won the Olympic title with Team USA in 2021.
Other notable names on the list released on Wednesday also include former referee Joey Crawford, former Detroit point guard and current Portland coach Chauncey Billups and ex-Phoenix and Dallas winger Shawn Marion. Becky Hammon, the most prolific passer in WNBA history and coach of the Las Vegas Aces, is also eligible.