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Candace Parker Enters Hall of Fame First Year

8/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Candace Parker entered the Hall in her first eligibility year after carrying a basketball onto the stage and citing a 27-year love of the game.
Elena Delle Donne noted MVP awards in 2015 and 2019 and a 2019 championship that yielded a 50-40-90 season.
Chamique Holdsclaw recalled Tennessee’s three straight titles from 1996 to 1998 and mourned coach Pat Summitt, who died in 2016.

History

Historical Context

After women's basketball entered the Olympics in 1976, the field grew to a 12-team format by the 1996 Atlanta Games. On August 4, 1996 the United States defeated Brazil 111–87, completing an 8-0 run for its third gold and beginning a streak that would reach 61 consecutive wins. Stars Lisa Leslie, Sheryl Swoopes and Dawn Staley helped launch the 1997 WNBA.

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Story summary

Candace Parker entered the Hall in her first eligibility year after carrying a basketball onto the stage and citing a 27-year love of the game.
Elena Delle Donne noted MVP awards in 2015 and 2019 and a 2019 championship that yielded a 50-40-90 season.
Chamique Holdsclaw recalled Tennessee’s three straight titles from 1996 to 1998 and mourned coach Pat Summitt, who died in 2016.

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