Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne highlighted their Hall of Fame speeches as tributes to basketball. Their successful careers culminated in their induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Candace Parker:

Parker brought a basketball to the podium and reflected on her journey with the sport. She was inducted as part of the 2026 class alongside the 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team, Chamique Holdsclaw, Amar’e Stoudemire, Joey Crawford, Doc Rivers, Mike D’Antoni, and Mark Few.

Parker shared, “It felt weird to walk on the stage without the reason I’m here today.”

She expressed gratitude for milestones like dunking on UConn, having a signature shoe, and being the first woman on the cover of NBA2K. Parker’s accolades include three WNBA titles, two MVPs, collegiate championships, and Olympic gold medals.

Elena Delle Donne:

Delle Donne’s speech reflected on career challenges and credited her sister Lizzie for perspective. She celebrated her MVP awards and her record-breaking shooting performance leading the Washington Mystics to a WNBA title.

Choking up, Delle Donne acknowledged, “I’ve never met anyone stronger,” referring to Lizzie.

She lightened the mood by referencing Larry David, using his famous line, and was introduced to him by Doc Rivers before the ceremony.

Chamique Holdsclaw:

Holdsclaw thanked her teammates and Coach Pat Summitt, paying tribute to their legacy and Summitt’s enduring influence. Her 1998 Tennessee team had an undefeated season and Holdsclaw enjoyed an 11-year WNBA career.

Her gratitude extended to the 1996 Olympic team that inspired her.

Doc Rivers:

Rivers, sixth in league history for regular-season wins as an NBA coach, shared emotion about his brother Grady’s inspiration.

Mark Few:

Few has coached Gonzaga to consistent success since 1999. He marveled at his journey from a small town to Hall of Fame recognition.

“What a crazy, surreal moment for me,” Few stated.

Joey Crawford:

Crawford officiated a significant number of NBA games over 39 years, dreaming of this career since his teens.

Mike D’Antoni:

D’Antoni is known for his fast-paced coaching style developed in Italy and Phoenix, influencing players like Stoudemire.

This Hall of Fame induction celebrated the profound impact and legacy of these basketball figures.