Search by the First Name of the HOFers
Dallas Shirley
Inducted:
1980
Stats
Born
June 7, 1913
Washington, D.C.
Died
March 1, 1994
Washington, D.C.
Position
NBA referee
College
George Washington University
Dallas Shirley was one of the most respected and authoritative officials in the history of basketball. Shirley began his basketball involvement as a player and official while attending Eastern High School, where he helped secure the 1931 InterHigh championship as a guard, and later at George Washington University. After joining the D.C. Officials Association in 1936, he officiated more than 2,000 games, including early National Basketball Association (NBA) contests. His lifetime of service earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1980.
Shirley's Awards & Records
- President of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) (1952–1953)
- Recipient of the Golden Whistle Award (NASO)
- Inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame (1972)
- Distinguished career as a basketball referee
- Respected official across major competitions
NBA Position
NBA referee (1946-1966)
NBA Stats
Career Length:
33 Years
Games Officiated:
Over 2,000
NCAA Championship Finals:
6
Olympic Games Officiated:
1 (1960 Summer)
Dan Issel
Inducted:
1993
Player Stats
6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
235 lb (107 kg)
Born
October 25, 1948
Batavia, Illinois, U.S.
Position
Center
Power forward
College
Kentucky (1967–1970)
Dan Issel, widely known as "The Horse," earned his nickname through legendary durability and a tireless work ethic that defined his fifteen-year career. A scoring machine at both the center and power forward positions, Issel began his professional journey in the ABA with the Kentucky Colonels, where he immediately led the league in scoring as a rookie and later secured a championship in 1975.
Upon moving to the NBA with the Denver Nuggets, he remained a premier offensive threat, combining a rugged post game with a highly reliable outside jump shot. Remarkably consistent, he missed only 24 games throughout his entire pro career, finishing as one of the most prolific scorers in the history of the sport. At the time of his retirement, he trailed only a handful of legends in total career points. Issel was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.
Issel's Awards and Records
- ABA champion (1975)
- NBA All-Star (1977)
- 6× ABA All-Star (1971–1976)
- ABA All-Star Game MVP (1972)
- All-ABA First Team (1972)
- 4× All-ABA Second Team (1971, 1973, 1974, 1976)
- ABA Rookie of the Year (1971)
- ABA scoring champion (1971)
- ABA All-Time Team
NBA Teams
Kentucky Colonels (1970–1975)
Denver Nuggets (1975–1985)
NBA Draft
1970: 8th round, 122nd overall pick
Detroit Pistons
Number Worn
44, 25
NBA Stats
Seasons:
15 (1970–1985)
Game Played:
1,218
Points:
27,482 (22.6 ppg)
Rebounds:
11,133 (9.1 rpg)
Assists:
2,907 (2.4 apg)
Steal:
1,039 (1.0 spg)
Blocks:
572 (0.5 bpg)
Field Goal(%):
49.9
Free Throw(%):
79.3
Danny Biasone
Inducted:
2000
Player Stats
Born
February 22, 1909
Miglianico, Chieti, Italy
Died
May 25, 1992
Syracuse, New York, U.S.
Position:
Contributor
College:
NA
Daniel "Danny" Biasone is often hailed as the "man who saved the NBA." An Italian immigrant who became a successful businessman in Syracuse, New York, Biasone founded the Syracuse Nationals (now the Philadelphia 76ers) in 1946. Biasone’s solution was the 24-second shot clock, which he co-developed with general manager Leo Ferris in 1954.
Using simple arithmetic—dividing the number of seconds in a game (2,880) by the average number of shots in an exciting game (120)—he landed on the number 24. The rule change was instantaneous in its impact: scoring jumped by 14 points per game in a single season, and fan interest skyrocketed.
He owned the Nationals until 1963 and saw them win the 1955 NBA Championship. He was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2000.
Biasone's Awards and Records
- NBA Champion Owner (1955)
- John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award (1982)
- Greater Syracuse Sports Hall of Fame (1987)
- Creator of the 24-second shot clock
- Recognized as a major NBA innovator
- Introduced the most important rule change in NBA history
- Shaped the NBA’s transition into a fan-driven sport
NBA Position
Team Owner
NBA Team
Syracuse Nationals/Philadelphia 76ers
NBA Stats
NBA championships:
1 (1955)
Years as owner:
1946–1963
Key innovation:
24-second shot clock
Franchise legacy:
Foundation of the Philadelphia 76ers
Darell Garretson
Inducted:
2016
Player Stats:
Born:
March 18, 1932
Long Point, Illinois, U.S.
Died:
April 21, 2008
Mesa, Arizona, U.S.
Position:
NBA referee
College:
NA
Darell Garretson was a trailblazing NBA referee who revolutionized officiating standards across the league. Over a career that spanned 27 seasons from 1967 to 1994, he officiated more than 2,000 NBA games, including 41 NBA Finals games and 1,798 regular season contests. Known for his calm demeanor and unwavering command on the court, Garretson emphasized teamwork among officials and helped develop the "three-referee system" that remains standard today.
Beyond his on-court duties, he served as the NBA's Supervisor of Officials from 1981 to 1998, mentoring generations of referees and implementing modern evaluation systems. He also co-founded the first union for NBA referees, advocating for better pay and working conditions. His influence was not only structural but philosophical—he championed consistency, accountability, and professionalism in officiating. In 2016, his legacy was honored with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Garretson's Awards & Records:
- Officiated 41 NBA Finals games
- Developed and implemented the three-referee system
- Served as NBA Supervisor of Officials (1981–1998)
- Co-founder of National Association of Basketball Referees
- Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (2016)
- Oversaw officiating through key eras including Magic vs. Bird and Jordan’s rise
Career :
NBA referee (1967–1994)
NBA Supervisor of Officials (1981–1998)
Career Stats:
NBA Games Officiated:
1,798 regular season
269 playoff
41 Finals
Notable Achivements:
Officiated 1,798 regular-season NBA games
Founded the first union for NBA referees
Mentored and developed dozens of top NBA referees
Championed evaluation and accountability systems for officiating performance
Dave Bing
Inducted:
1990
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born
November 24, 1943
Washington, D.C., U.S.
Position
Point guard
College
Syracuse (1963–1966)
Dave Bing was one of the NBA’s premier scoring guards during the late 1960s and 1970s. Drafted second overall in 1966 by the Detroit Pistons, Bing made an immediate impact, earning Rookie of the Year honors and quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s most consistent offensive threats.
A dynamic scorer with smooth shooting range and strong playmaking ability, Bing led the NBA in scoring during the 1967–68 season, averaging 27.1 points per game. He was selected to seven NBA All-Star Games and earned multiple All-NBA Team honors throughout his career.
Over 12 seasons, Bing averaged 20.3 points and 6.0 assists per game, combining leadership with steady production. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1990.
Bing's NBA Records
- 7× NBA All-Star (1968–1969, 1971, 1973–1976)
- NBA All-Star Game MVP (1976)
- 2× All-NBA First Team (1968, 1971)
- All-NBA Second Team (1974)
- NBA Rookie of the Year (1967)
- NBA All-Rookie Team (1967)
- NBA scoring champion (1968)
- NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
NBA Teams
Detroit Pistons (1966–1975)
Washington Bullets (1975–1977)
Boston Celtics (1977–1978)
NBA Draft
1966: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
Detroit Pistons
Number Worn
21, 44
NBA Stats
Seasons:
12 (1966–1978)
Games Played:
901
Points:
18,327 (20.3 ppg)
Rebounds:
3,420 (3.8 rpg)
Assists:
5,397 (6.0 apg)
Steals:
483 (1.3 spg)
Blocks:
89 (0.2 bpg)
Field Goal %:
44.1%
Free Throw(%):
77.5%
Dave Cowens
Inducted:
1991
Player Stats
6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
230 lb (104 kg)
Born
October 25, 1948
Newport, Kentucky, U.S.
Position
Center
College
Florida State (1967–1970)
Dave Cowens was the heart and soul of the dominant Boston Celtics teams of the 1970s. Though undersized for a center at 6 feet 9 inches, Cowens combined relentless hustle, defensive toughness, rebounding strength, and surprising playmaking ability to become one of the league’s most complete big men.
After being drafted fourth overall in 1970, Cowens made an immediate impact, sharing Rookie of the Year honors. He went on to win the NBA Most Valuable Player Award in 1973 and led the Celtics to two NBA championships (1974, 1976). In 1973, Cowens achieved one of the most remarkable individual seasons in history, winning both the league MVP and the All-Star Game MVP.
A versatile player who could score, rebound, defend, and even handle the ball, Cowens helped define team-first basketball during his 11-year career. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991.
Cowens's NBA Records
- 2× NBA champion (1974, 1976)
- NBA Most Valuable Player (1973)
- 8× NBA All-Star (1972–1978, 1980)
- NBA All-Star Game MVP (1973)
- 3× All-NBA Second Team (1973, 1975, 1976)
- NBA All-Defensive First Team (1976)
- 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1975, 1980)
- NBA Rookie of the Year (1971)
- NBA All-Rookie Team (1971)
- NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
NBA Teams
Boston Celtics (1970–1980)
Milwaukee Bucks (1982–1983)
NBA Draft
1970: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Boston Celtics
Number Worn
18, 36
NBA Stats
Seasons:
11 (1970-1983)
Game played:
766
Points:
13,516 (17.6 ppg)
Rebounds:
10,444 (13.6 rpg)
Assists:
2,910 (3.8 apg)
Steals:
599 (1.1 spg)
Blocks:
488 (0.9 bpg)
Field Goal(%):
46.0
Free Throw(%):
78.3
Dave DeBusschere
Inducted:
1983
Player Stats
6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
220 lb (100 kg)
Born
October 16, 1940
Detroit, Michigan, U.S.
Died
May 14, 2003
New York City, New York, U.S.
Position
Power forward
Small forward
College
Detroit Mercy (1959–1962)
Dave DeBusschere was one of the toughest and most reliable forwards of his era. He played 12 NBA seasons from 1962 to 1974, beginning with the Detroit Pistons before becoming a key piece of the New York Knicks’ championship teams. Known for his strong defense, rebounding, and mid-range shooting, DeBusschere brought toughness and leadership to every lineup. He was an eight-time NBA All-Star and earned All-Defensive Team honors six times.
His impact was especially important during the Knicks’ title runs in 1970 and 1973, where his defense and clutch play stood out. DeBusschere finished his career with more than 14,000 points and 9,000 rebounds. In recognition of his consistent excellence and championship success, he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983.
DeBusschere's Awards & Records
- 2× Second-team All-American – NEA (1961, 1962)
- Second-team All-American – NABC (1961)
- 3× Third-team All-American – UPI (1960–1962)
- Third-team All-American – AP, NABC (1962)
- 22 retired by New York Knicks
NBA Records
- 2× NBA champion (1970, 1973)
- 8× NBA All-Star (1966–1968, 1970–1974)
- 6× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1969–1974)
- All-NBA Second Team (1969)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1963)
- NBA anniversary team (50th, 75th)
NBA Position
Detroit Pistons (1962–1968)
New York Knicks (1968–1974)
NBA Draft
1962: territorial pick
Detroit Pistons
Number Worn
22
NBA Stats
Seasons:
12 (1962–1974)
Games Played:
875
Points:
14,053 (16.1 ppg)
Rebounds:
9,618 (11.0 rpg)
Assists:
2,497 (2.9 apg)
Steals:
67 (0.9 spg)
Blocks:
39 (0.5 bpg)
Field Goal(%):
43.2
Free Throw(%):
69.9
Playoff Game:
96
Dave Gavitt
Inducted:
2006
Stats
Born
October 26, 1937
Hartford, Connecticut, U.S.
Died
September 16, 2011
near Rumford, Rhode Island, U.S.
Position
Contributor
College
NA
Dave Gavitt was one of the primary architects of modern basketball, wielding immense influence at the collegiate, professional, and international levels. While he began his journey as a successful coach—leading Providence College to the 1973 Final Four—Gavitt is best remembered as a visionary administrator.
In 1979, he founded the Big East Conference, transforming a group of independent Eastern schools into a media powerhouse that redefined the business of college sports through a groundbreaking partnership with the then-fledgling ESPN. Gavitt's impact reached the NBA when he joined the Boston Celtics as Senior Executive Vice President and CEO in 1990, succeeding the legendary Red Auerbach as the franchise's primary decision-maker.
He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as a contributor in 2006.
Gavitt's Awards and Records
- National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame (2006)
- John W. Bunn Lifetime Achievement Award (1987)
- Naismith Outstanding Contributor to Basketball (1993)
- Olympic Head Coach (1980 - U.S. Boycott year)
- 5x New England Coach of the Year
NBA Position
Commissioner (Big East) 1979–1990
CEO (Boston Celtics) 1990-1994
President (NCAA Foundation) 1995-1997
Chairman (Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame) 1998-2003
NBA Stats
Coaching career:
1966–1979
Final Four appearances:
1
Big East Conference:
Founder & First Commissioner (1979–1990)
Boston Celtics:
CEO & Vice Chairman (1990–1994)
USA Basketball:
President (1988–1992)
Providence Coaching Record:
209–84 (.713)
NCAA Tournament:
Chairman of the Men's Basketball Committee
Tournaments:
5–6 (NCAA University Division / Division I)
6–4 (NIT)
David Hixon
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
Born:
December 3, 1952
Position:
Head coach
College:
Amherst College
David Hixon is a legendary figure in college basketball, renowned for his transformative 42-year tenure as head coach of the Amherst College men's basketball team.
At age 24, Hixon accepted a position as the head men’s basketball coach at Amherst College. He never left his alma mater. In 42 seasons, Hixon won 826 games, eight conference titles, and two NCAA Division III national championships. In 2007, the NABC named Hixon Division III Coach of the Year for leading his squad to a 30-2 record and the national title.
Though he never coached in the NBA, his impact on the sport earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023—the first NCAA Division III coach to receive this honor.
Hixon's Awards
- NABC Division III Coach of the Year: 2× (2007, 2013)
- Hall of Fame Induction: Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
- In 2022, Amherst College honored his contributions by naming the basketball court at LeFrak Gymnasium "Hixon Court."
- He was named NABC NCAA Division III Coach of the Year in 2007 and 2013.
- Participated in the NCAA national tournament 20 times and compiled a 43-20 postseason record.
Teams
Amherst College (1977-2020)
Stats
Coaching Tenure:
1977-2020
Win:
826
Loose:
293
Winning Percentage:
.738
NCAA Division III National Championships:
2 (2007, 2013)
NCAA Tournament Appearances:
20
Final Four Appearances:
7
David Robinson
Inducted:
2009
Player Stats
7 ft 1 in (2.16 m)
250 lb (113 kg)
Born
August 6, 1965
Key West, Florida, U.S.
Position:
Center
College:
Navy (1983–1987)
David "The Admiral" Robinson was the cornerstone of the San Antonio Spurs and one of the most physically gifted centers to ever play the game. A graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Robinson honored his military commitment for two years before entering the NBA in 1989. His impact was instantaneous; he possessed the speed of a guard and the strength of a titan, leading the Spurs to the greatest single-season turnaround in NBA history at that time.
Robinson’s career was defined by elite two-way play. He is one of the few players to win an NBA MVP (1995), a Defensive Player of the Year award, and a scoring title. Later in his career, he displayed incredible leadership and humility that brought San Antonio its first two NBA Championships in 1999 and 2003. A two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and member of the 1992 "Dream Team," he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2009.
Robinson's Awards and Records
- 2x Olympic Gold Medalist (1992, 1996)
- USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1986)
- 1988 Olympic Bronze Medal
- 1986 FIBA World Championship Gold Medal
- 1987 Pan American Games Silver Medal
- 1992 FIBA Americas Championship Gold Medal
NBA Records
- 2x NBA Champion (1999, 2003)
- NBA MVP (1995)
- 10x NBA All-Star
- NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1992)
- NBA Scoring Champion (1994)
- 10x All-NBA Selection (4x First Team)
- 8x All-Defensive Selection (4x First Team)
- NBA Rookie of the Year (1990)
NBA Team
San Antonio Spurs (1989–2003)
NBA Draft
1987: 1st round, 1st overall pick
San Antonio Spurs
Number Worn
50
NBA Stats
Seasons:
14 (1989–2003)
Game Played:
987
Game Started:
985
Points:
20,790 (21.1 ppg)
Rebounds:
10,497 (10.6 rpg)
Blocks:
2,954 (3.0 bpg)
Field Goal %:
51.8%
FT%
73.6%
Steals (STL):
1,388 (1.4 spg)
NBA Championships:
2 (1999, 2003)
David Stern
Inducted:
2014
Player Stats:
Born:
September 22, 1942
New York City, U.S.
Died:
January 1, 2020
New York City, U.S.
Position:
Commissioner
College:
NA
David Stern served as NBA Commissioner from 1984 to 2014, transforming the league into a global sports powerhouse. Under his leadership, the NBA expanded from 23 to 30 teams, introduced seven new franchises, and saw the creation of the WNBA and NBA Development League. Stern was instrumental in promoting the game internationally, launching broadcasts in over 200 countries and leading the NBA’s participation in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics with the “Dream Team.”
His tenure saw unprecedented growth in television deals, sponsorships, and player salaries, while implementing a strict drug policy and the NBA salary cap system. Stern also oversaw landmark labor agreements and championed community outreach programs. His vision turned basketball into a truly global sport, leaving a legacy of growth, professionalism, and innovation. Stern was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014.
Stern's Notable Achievements:
- NBA Commissioner (1984–2014)
- Oversaw expansion from 23 to 30 teams
- Founded WNBA (1996) and NBA D-League (2001)
- Negotiated landmark TV and sponsorship deals
- Pioneered NBA global marketing and Dream Team participation in 1992 Olympics
NBA Position:
NBA Commissioner (1984–2014)
NBA Stats:
Years as NBA Commissioner:
30 (1984–2014)
NBA franchises added:
7 (expanded from 23 to 30 teams)
Championships overseen:
30 NBA Finals
New leagues created:
WNBA (1996)
NBA D-League (2001)
International broadcast reach:
200+ countries
Labor agreements negotiated:
5 Collective Bargaining Agreements
Global events launched:
NBA Global Games
Basketball Without Borders
David Thompson
Inducted:
1996
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
195 lb (88 kg)
Born
July 13, 1954
Shelby, North Carolina, U.S.
Position
Shooting guard
College
NC State (1972–1975)
David Thompson was one of the most explosive athletes the NBA has ever seen, known for his leaping ability, scoring touch, and smooth style. Nicknamed “Skywalker,” Thompson rose to national fame at NC State before becoming a star in the ABA and NBA. He joined the Denver Nuggets in 1975 and quickly became the franchise’s centerpiece, combining high-flying finishes with elite shooting and body control.
Thompson led the NBA in scoring in 1979 and was a consistent All-Star during the late 1970s, helping establish the Nuggets as a contender in the Western Conference. Despite a shortened prime, Thompson’s impact and peak performance placed him among the game’s elite. David Thompson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1996.
Thompson's Awards and Records
- ABA All-Star (1976)
- ABA All-Star Game MVP (1976)
- All-ABA Second Team (1976)
- ABA Rookie of the Year (1976)
- ABA All-Rookie First Team (1976)
- ABA All-Time Team
- NCAA champion (1974)
NBA Records
- 4× NBA All-Star (1977–1979, 1983)
- NBA All-Star Game MVP (1979)
- 2× All-NBA First Team (1977, 1978)
NBA Teams
Denver Nuggets (1975–1982)
Seattle SuperSonics (1982–1984)
NBA Draft
1975: 1st round, 1st overall pick
Atlanta Hawks
Number Worn
33, 44
NBA Stats
Seasons Played:
9 (1975-1984)
Game Played:
592
Points:
13,422 (22.7 ppg)
Rebounds:
2,446 (4.1 rpg)
Assists:
1,939 (3.3 apg)
Steals:
595 (1.0 SPG)
Blocks:
509 (0.7 BPG)
Field Goal %:
50.5%
Free Throw %:
78.1%
Single-Game High:
73 Points (April 9, 1978)
ABA/NBA All-Star:
5 (1976–1979, 1983)
All-NBA First Team:
2 (1977, 1978)
NCAA Championships:
1 (1974)
Dawn Staley
Inducted:
2013
Player Stats:
5 ft 6 in (1.68 m,60kg)
Born:
May 4, 1970
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Point guard
Coach
College:
Virginia (1988–1992)
Dawn Staley (born 1970) is one of the most influential figures in basketball history, excelling as both a player and a coach. As a point guard, she was celebrated for her leadership, vision, and defensive tenacity, starring at the University of Virginia with three Final Four appearances and earning multiple National Player of the Year honors.
She went on to a distinguished professional career in the WNBA and overseas, while also representing the United States in international competition, winning three Olympic gold medals as a player. Transitioning to coaching, Staley built the University of South Carolina into a national powerhouse, capturing multiple NCAA championships and producing elite-level talent.
Known for her commitment to discipline, teamwork, and player development, she has become a role model for generations of athletes. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013, Staley’s legacy as a champion and trailblazer continues to shape the game.
Staley's Awards & Records:
- 3× Olympic gold medalist (player)
- 2× NCAA champion as coach (2017, 2022)
- Multiple National Coach of the Year awards
- 2× Naismith College Player of the Year
- 6× WNBA All-Star
WNBA Records:
- One of the few to win Olympic gold as both player and coach
- Led South Carolina to multiple NCAA titles
- First African American coach to win multiple NCAA women’s basketball championships
- Regarded as one of the greatest point guards in basketball history
WNBA Teams:
As a player:
Tarbes Gespe Bigorre 1994–1995
Richmond / Philadelphia Rage 1996–1998
Charlotte Sting 1999–2005
Houston Comets 2005–2006
As a coach:
Temple 2000–2008
South Carolina 2008–present
WNBA Draft:
1999: 1st round, 9th overall pick
Charlotte Sting
Number Worn:
5
WNBA Stats:
Seasons:
8 (1999–2006)
Games Played:
263
Game Started:
256
Points:
8.5
FG %:
39.9%
3P %:
37.6%
FT(%):
82.4%
Overall Coaching Records:
647–190 (.773)
Olympic Gold Medals:
3 (1996, 2000, 2004)
Dean Smith
Inducted:
1983
Stats
Born
February 28, 1931
Emporia, Kansas, U.S.
Died
February 7, 2015
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, U.S.
Position
Coach
College
University of Kansas (1949–1953)
Dean Smith was one of the most respected coaches in basketball history, best known for building a winning culture at the University of North Carolina. Although he did not coach in the NBA, his influence on the professional game was significant through the many players he developed for the league. Over 36 seasons,from 1961 to 1997, he mentored more than 50 future NBA/ABA players and finished with 879 career wins, which was an NCAA record at the time of his retirement.
His teams won two national championships and consistently competed at the highest level. Known for his discipline, innovative strategies, and focus on teamwork, Smith helped shape modern basketball systems that carried into the NBA. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1983 in recognition of his outstanding coaching career and lasting impact on the sport.
Smith's Awards & Records
- 4× National Coach of the Year (1977, 1979, 1982, 1993)
- 8× ACC Coach of the Year
- One of only three coaches to win the "Triple Crown"
- Member of the FIBA Hall of Fame (2007)
- Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2013)
- Developed numerous future NBA players
NBA Position
North Carolina (1961–1997)
NBA Stats
Seasons:
10 (1967-1977)
Games Played:
742
Points:
9,217 (12.4 ppg)
Rebounds:
2,354 (3.2 rpg)
Assists:
2,533 (3.4 apg)
Field Goal %:
44.8%
Free Throw %:
84.0%
Playoff Game:
95
Del Harris
Inducted:
2022
Player Stats
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
205 lb (93 kg)
Born:
June 18, 1937
Dale, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Forward
Vice president
College:
Milligan (1955–1959)
Del Harris is a revered figure in the NBA, known for his outstanding coaching career that spanned over three decades. A former player, Harris transitioned into coaching with success, becoming one of the league’s most respected mentors.
Harris served as head coach for the Houston Rockets, Milwaukee Bucks, and Los Angeles Lakers. He’s perhaps best remembered for his time with the Lakers, where he helped develop future Hall of Famer Kobe Bryant.
Harris was also instrumental in bringing stability to the Rockets in the 1980s and early 1990s. His coaching style emphasized defense, discipline, and leadership, which earned him numerous accolades, including NBA Coach of the Year in 1995.
A respected figure in the NBA, his legacy lives on through his contributions to the sport, both as a coach and as a mentor to many.
Harris's Awards and Records
- NBA Coach of the Year (1995)
- 2× NBA All-Star Game Head Coach (1995, 2000)
- Chuck Daly Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)
- Coach Wooden "Keys to Life" Award (2014)
- 3× Puerto Rican League champion (1973–1975)
- Coached the Los Angeles Lakers to the Western Conference Finals (1997)
- Known for his mentorship of Kobe Bryant and other young stars
- Implemented a defense-first mentality that helped reshape teams like the Lakers and Rockets
- Key contributor to the development of emerging talent during the 1980s and 1990s
NBA Teams
As Coach
Utah Stars (assistant) 1975–1976
Houston Rockets (assistant) 1976–1979
Houston Rockets 1979–1983
Milwaukee Bucks (assistant) 1986–1987
Milwaukee Bucks 1987–1991
Los Angeles Lakers 1994–1999
Dallas Mavericks (assistant) 2000–2007
Chicago Bulls (assistant) 2008–2009
New Jersey Nets (assistant) 2009–2010
Texas Legends 2011–2012
Coaching Stats
NBA
Game Coached
1,013
Win
556
Lose
457
Win %
.549
D-League
Game Coached
50
Win
24
Lose
26
Win %
.480
Sports Fan Products
NBA Hall of Fame
The NBA Hall of Fame, officially known as the Basketball Hall of Fame, is a prestigious institution that honors the greatest figures in the sport of basketball. Each year, the Induction ceremony celebrates legendary players who have made significant impacts on the game. The Hall of Fame class features basketball legends whose remarkable career achievements and iconic moments have defined the sport.
Inductees are recognized for their substantial player contributions, earning various awards and honors throughout their careers. The Hall also pays tribute to retired jerseys and acknowledges the profound impact on the game by highlighting the historic contributions of its members. With a focus on the legacy in basketball, the NBA Hall of Fame continues to celebrate excellence and inspire future generations of players through memorable speeches and recognition in sports.
