All-Star Weekend Announces Hall of Fame Finalists
SAN FRANCISCO — The NBA All-Star Weekend has become a stage for more than just high-flying dunks and late-night celebrity games. On Friday, it was the setting for a significant announcement as the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame revealed its list of finalists. Among the notable names are Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard, two giants of the game who are almost certain to be enshrined this year, potentially in a unique dual capacity.
Dual Hall of Famers: Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard
Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard are not just vying for individual spots in the Hall of Fame; they could also join the 2008 USA Basketball gold medal-winning men’s team, known as the Redeem Team, as a collective finalist. This team, which included other legends like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, restored the pride of American basketball after a disappointing showing in the 2004 Olympics. Both ‘Melo and Howard were integral to that success.
Anthony’s journey to the Hall of Fame is a testament to his consistent brilliance. He was an NCAA champion at Syracuse, a six-time All-NBA player, and a 10-time All-Star, with a career average of 22.5 points per game. Known for his scoring ability, Anthony led the league in scoring in 2013 and was one of the most feared scorers of his generation. His versatility and clutch performances made him a fan favorite and a respected veteran in the league.
Dwight Howard’s early career was marked by his dominance on the defensive end. He was arguably the best defender of his generation, earning three consecutive Defensive Player of the Year awards. Howard was an eight-time All-NBA player, an eight-time All-Star, and a key contributor to the Los Angeles Lakers’ championship run in the 2020 NBA bubble. His presence in the paint was a game-changer, and his enduring impact on the game is undeniable.
Sue Bird: A Champion in Every Sense
Sue Bird, another finalist, is a legend in women’s basketball. She won two NCAA championships at UConn and went on to achieve remarkable success in the WNBA, where she secured five Olympic gold medals and four WNBA championships. Bird’s legacy is not just about her accolades but also her influence on the sport. Hall of Fame chairman Jerry Colangelo, who also managed the 2008 Olympic team, praised her accomplishments, stating, "You look at the accomplishments for each of them in terms of championships, in terms of winning gold, in terms of being the players they were for as long as they were, it’s a real tribute to the game of basketball and women’s basketball in particular."
Diverse Finalists Highlight the Game’s Rich History
The list of Hall of Fame finalists is a testament to the diversity and depth of basketball’s history. Alongside the Redeem Team, the roster includes:
- Maya Moore: A four-time WNBA champion and two-time NCAA champion at UConn, Moore is one of the most decorated players in women’s basketball.
- Billy Donovan: A successful coach at both the collegiate and professional levels, Donovan led the University of Florida to two national championships and has a strong record with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
- Mark Few: A renowned college coach, Few has led Gonzaga University to consistent success, including a run to the NCAA championship game.
- Marques Johnson: A star in both college and the NBA, Johnson was a five-time All-Star and a key player for the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Micky Arison: The longtime owner of the Miami Heat, Arison has been instrumental in the team’s success, including multiple NBA championships.
- Jerry Welsh, Tal Brody, Sylvia Fowles, Jennifer Azzi, Buck Williams, Molly Bolin, Danny Crawford, and Dusan Ivkovic: Each of these individuals has left an indelible mark on the sport, whether through coaching, playing, or ownership.
Just Missing the Cut
While the list of finalists is impressive, it also highlights the competitive nature of the selection process. Notable names just missing the cut include Shawn Marion and Amar’e Stoudemire, two dynamic and influential players who formed a formidable duo for the Phoenix Suns. Doc Rivers, a respected coach in the NBA, also narrowly missed out on this year’s class. These omissions underscore the high standards and the prestigious nature of the Hall of Fame.
A Celebration of Basketball’s Greatest
The announcement of these finalists is a celebration of basketball’s greatest. It honors the athletes, coaches, and administrators who have made significant contributions to the sport. As the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame prepares to welcome its newest members, it continues to build a legacy that future generations of basketball fans will cherish. The enshrinement of Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, Sue Bird, and others will be a fitting tribute to their achievements and a reminder of the enduring magic of the game.
