NBA Hall of Fame

Cumberland “Cum” Posey was a pioneering figure in early basketball history, renowned for his skill, leadership, and impact on the game. As a player, coach, and owner, Posey was instrumental in popularizing basketball among African American communities during segregation. He led and managed the legendary Loendi Big Five, guiding them to four consecutive Colored Basketball World Championships from 1920 to 1923.

Posey was known for his exceptional scoring ability and strategic mind on the court, helping break racial barriers in sports. Beyond basketball, he was also a celebrated baseball executive, making him one of the few to be inducted into both the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Baseball Hall of Fame. His influence shaped the growth of African American professional sports and set a foundation for future generations.

Posey 's Awards & Records:

5× Colored Basketball World Champion (1912, 1920–1923)
Pittsburgh City Champion (1908)
Washington Nationals Ring of Honor
Played and coached in early 1900s professional African American leagues
Dual Hall of Fame inductee: Basketball and Baseball
Widely regarded as the top African American player of his era, known for precision shooting, floor leadership, and scoring prowess

Teams :

Loendi Big Five (1912-1920)

Career Stats:

Role:
Star player, leading scorer, team captain
Playing Style:
Skilled scorer, floor general
World Championship Appearances:
4 (1920–1923)
World Championship Win:
1 (1912)

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

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 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

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)

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

Dennis Rodman

Inducted:
2011

Personal Stats:

6 ft 7 in (2.01 m)
210 lb (95 kg)

Born:
May 13, 1961
Trenton, New Jersey, U.S.

Position:
Power forward
Small forward

College:
North Central Texas (1983)
Southeastern Oklahoma State (1983–1986)

Dennis Rodman, famously known as “The Worm,” was one of basketball’s fiercest defenders and most relentless rebounders. His career was defined by unmatched hustle, energy, and the ability to dominate games without scoring. Rodman led the NBA in rebounding for seven straight seasons, showcasing remarkable positioning and tenacity on both ends of the court.

He played a vital role in two NBA dynasties—helping the Detroit Pistons capture back-to-back championships and later anchoring the Chicago Bulls’ defense during their second three-peat. A two-time Defensive Player of the Year and five-time NBA champion, Rodman’s versatility allowed him to guard every position, making him one of the most unique and effective players in league history. While his colorful personality and off-court headlines drew attention, his on-court work ethic made him an icon of effort and intensity.

Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011, Rodman is remembered as a defensive legend and one of the greatest rebounders ever.

Rodman's Awards & Records:

5× NBA champion (1989, 1990, 1996–1998)
2× NBA All-Star (1990, 1992)
2× All-NBA Third Team (1992, 1995)
2× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1990, 1991)
7× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1989–1993, 1995, 1996)
NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1994)
7× NBA rebounding champion (1992–1998)
NBA 75th Anniversary Team

NBA Records:

Averaged 18.7 rebounds per game in 1991–92, one of the highest in modern NBA history
Defensive anchor for both Pistons’ “Bad Boys” and Bulls’ dynasty
Regarded as one of the greatest rebounders and defenders in basketball history

NBA Teams:

Detroit Pistons (1986–1993)
San Antonio Spurs (1993–1995)
Chicago Bulls (1995–1998)
Los Angeles Lakers (1999)
Dallas Mavericks (2000)

NBA Draft:
1986: 2nd round, 27th overall pick
Detroit Pistons

Number Worn:
10, 91, 73, 70

NBA Stats:

Seasons:
1986–2000
Games Played:
911
Game Started:
573
Points:
6,683 (7.3 ppg)
Rebounds:
11,954 (13.1 rpg)
Assists:
1,600 (1.8 apg)Steals:
Field Goal %:
52.1
FT (%):
58.4
Point Per Game:
7.3

Dick Barnett

Inducted:
2024

Player Stats

Stats:
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
October 2, 1936
Gary, Indiana, U.S.
Position:
Shooting guard

College:
Tennessee State (1955–1959)

Dick Barnett was a key figure in NBA history, known for his unorthodox but effective jump shot and championship pedigree. A standout at Tennessee State University, he led his team to three consecutive NAIA championships before being drafted by the Syracuse Nationals in 1959.

Barnett later played for the Los Angeles Lakers before finding his true home with the New York Knicks, where he became an essential part of their success in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Barnett was a crucial member of the Knicks' 1970 NBA championship team, playing alongside legends like Willis Reed and Walt Frazier.

His signature "fall-back baby" jump shot was nearly impossible to defend, and he provided steady scoring and leadership throughout his career. Over 14 NBA seasons, Barnett scored more than 15,000 points and was known for his intelligence both on and off the court, earning a Ph.D. after his playing days.

Barnett's Awards

2× NBA champion (1970, 1973)
NBA All-Star (1968)
ABL champion (1962)
All-ABL First Team (1962)
12 retired by New York Knicks
3× NAIA champion (1957–1959)
3× AP Little College All-American (1957–1959)
2× UPI Little College All-American (1958, 1959)
2× NAIA tournament MVP (1958, 1959)

NBA Teams

Syracuse Nationals 1959–1961
Los Angeles Lakers 1962–1965
New York Knicks 1965–1973

NBA draft:
1959: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Syracuse Nationals

Numbers Worn:
5, 12

NBA Stats

Seasons:
14
Games Played:
971
Points:
15,358 (15.0 PPG)
Rebounds:
2,812 (2.9 RPG)
Assists:
2,729 (2.8 apg)
FG%
45.6
FT%
76.1

Dick Bavetta

Inducted:
2015

Player Stats:

6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
156 lb (71 kg)

Born:
December 10, 1939
New York City, U.S.

Position:
NBA referee

College:
NA

Dick Bavetta was one of the most respected and enduring referees in NBA history, known for his remarkable consistency, professionalism, and longevity. Beginning his officiating career in 1975, Bavetta became an ironman of NBA refereeing, working 2,635 consecutive regular-season games without ever missing an assignment. His sharp judgment and ability to handle high-pressure situations made him a trusted figure in countless playoff and Finals matchups.

Bavetta was present for some of the league’s most iconic moments, from buzzer-beaters to historic player performances, always maintaining composure and fairness. Off the court, he became a symbol of dedication to the craft, mentoring younger officials and representing the NBA globally. Retiring in 2014 after 39 seasons, his unmatched streak and commitment to the game earned him induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015.

Notable Achivements:

NBA Ironman Streak: 2,635 consecutive games without absence
Longest officiating career in NBA history (39 seasons)
Worked 27 NBA Finals games and over 270 playoff games
Officiated in 3 NBA All-Star Games
Served as a mentor for new NBA referees
Represented the NBA in numerous international games and events
Recognized for exceptional consistency and professionalism

Career :

NBA referee (1975–2014)

Career Stats:

Seasons as Referee:
1975–2014 (39 seasons)
Regular-Season Games Officiated:
2,635 consecutive
Playoff Games Officiated:
270+
NBA Finals Games Officiated:
27
All-Star Games Officiated:
3 (1989, 1995, 2006)
Years of Consecutive Service:
39

Dikembe Mutombo

Inducted:
2015

Player Stats:

7 ft 2 in (2.18 m)
260 lb (118 kg)

Born:
June 25, 1966
Léopoldville, Congo-Léopoldville

Died:
September 30, 2024
Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.

Position:
Center

College:
Georgetown University (1988–1991)

Dikembe Mutombo, one of the greatest defensive players in NBA history, built his legendary career on rim protection, rebounding, and leadership. Standing 7’2”, the Congo native played 18 seasons (1991–2009) with the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks, and Houston Rockets. Mutombo was an eight-time NBA All-Star, four-time Defensive Player of the Year, and three-time All-NBA selection.

Known for his signature finger wag after blocked shots, he ranks second all-time in career blocks (3,289). Beyond basketball, Mutombo became a global humanitarian, founding the Dikembe Mutombo Foundation and building hospitals in Africa. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015, Mutombo is remembered not only as an elite defender and rebounder but also as an ambassador for the game and a champion of humanitarian causes worldwide.

Mutombo's Awards & Records:

8× NBA All-Star (1992, 1995–1998, 2000–2002)
All-NBA Second Team (2001)
2× All-NBA Third Team (1998, 2002)
4× NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1995, 1997, 1998, 2001)
3× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1997, 1998, 2001)
3× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1995, 1999, 2002)
NBA All-Rookie First Team (1992)

NBA Records:

2nd all-time in blocked shots (3,289) behind only Hakeem Olajuwon
Most consecutive seasons leading the NBA in blocks
One of only two players to win Defensive Player of the Year four times
Oldest player to record a double-double in NBA playoff history

NBA Teams:

Denver Nuggets 1991–1996
Atlanta Hawks 1996–2001
Philadelphia 76ers 2001–2002
New Jersey Nets 2002–2003
New York Knicks 2003–2004
Houston Rockets 2004–2009

NBA Draft:
1991: 1st round, 4th overall pick
Denver Nuggets

Number Worn:
55

NBA Stats:

Seasons:
18 (1991–2009)
Games Played:
1,196
Game Started:
997
Points:
11,729 (9.8 PPG)
Rebounds:
12,359 (10.3 RPG)
Blocks:
3,289 (2.8 BPG)
Field Goal %:
51.8%
FT(%):
68.4 %

Dino Rađa

Inducted:
2018

Player Stats:

6 ft 11 in (2.11 m)
225 lb (102 kg)

Born:
24 April 1967
Split, SR Croatia, SFR Yugoslavia

Position:
Power forward

College:
KK Split

Dino Rađa was one of the most skilled and accomplished big men to emerge from Europe, leaving a lasting impact both in the NBA and internationally. A talented scorer and tough competitor, Rađa played four seasons with the Boston Celtics in the 1990s, averaging 16.7 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. His smooth footwork, soft touch, and physical play made him a consistent threat in the post.

Before and after his NBA stint, Rađa was a dominant force in European basketball, winning multiple league titles and an Olympic silver medal with Yugoslavia in 1988. He was one of the earliest international players to thrive in the NBA, helping pave the way for future stars. Rađa was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018, celebrated for his excellence across continents.

Rađa's Awards & Records:

2× EuroLeague champion (1989, 1990)
EuroLeague Final Four MVP (1989)
2× FIBA European Selection (1991 2×)
3× FIBA EuroStar (1997–1999)
50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors (2008)
FIBA World Cup Champion (1990) – Yugoslavia
FIBA EuroBasket Gold Medalist (1989, 1991)

NBA Records:

NBA All-Rookie Second Team (1994)
First Croatian-born player to play for the Boston Celtics
One of the first European players to become a full-time starter
Two seasons with 1,000+ points and 500+ rebounds

Career Teams:

Boston Celtics (1993–1997)

NBA Draft:
1989: 2nd round, 40th overall pick
Boston Celtics

Number Worn:
40, 14

NBA Stats:

Seasons:
4 (1993–1997)
Games Played:
224
Points:
3,733
Rebounds:
1,883
Assists:
356
Points Per Game:
16.7
Rebounds Per Game:
8.4
Assists Per Game:
1.9
Blocks Per Game:
1.3

Dirk Nowitzki

Inducted:
2023

Player Stats

Stats:
7 ft 0 in (2.13 m)
245 lb (111 kg)

Born:
June 19, 1978
Würzburg, West Germany

Position:
Power forward
Special advisor

College:
NA

Dirk Nowitzki transformed the NBA with his unique blend of size, skill, and shooting. Standing at 7 feet tall, the German forward spent his entire 21-season career with the Dallas Mavericks, earning respect as one of the most versatile big men in league history.

Known for his signature one-legged fadeaway, Nowitzki scored over 31,000 points—ranking sixth all-time—and became the highest-scoring foreign-born player in NBA history. He led the Mavericks to their first and only NBA championship in 2011, defeating a heavily favored Miami Heat team and earning Finals MVP honors.

A 14-time All-Star and 2007 league MVP, Nowitzki was also named to 12 All-NBA teams throughout his career. Beyond the stats, he was known for his humility, loyalty, and impact on the global game.

Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023, Dirk’s influence continues to shape generations of international players aiming for greatness in the NBA.

Nowitzki's Awards

German Bundesliga MVP (1999)
German Bundesliga Top Scorer (1999)
FIBA World Cup MVP (2002)
FIBA EuroBasket MVP (2005)
FIBA EuroBasket Dream Team (2020)
6× Euroscar Player of the Year (2002–2006, 2011)
2× FIBA Europe Men's Player of the Year (2005, 2011)
Mister Europa Player of the Year (2005)
Silbernes Lorbeerblatt (2011)
German Sports Personality of the Year (2011)
Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award (2020)
14 retired by Germany national team
41 retired by Dallas Mavericks

NBA Records

NBA champion (2011)
NBA Finals MVP (2011)
NBA Most Valuable Player (2007)
14× NBA All-Star (2002–2012, 2014, 2015, 2019)
4× All-NBA First Team (2005–2007, 2009)
5× All-NBA Second Team (2002, 2003, 2008, 2010, 2011)
3× All-NBA Third Team (2001, 2004, 2012)
50–40–90 club (2007)
NBA Three-Point Contest champion (2006)
NBA 75th Anniversary Team

NBA Teams

DJK Würzburg 1994–1998
Dallas Mavericks 1998–2019

NBA draft:
1998: 1st round, 9th overall pick
Milwaukee Bucks

Numbers Worn:
41

NBA Stats

Seasons:
21
Games Played:
1,522
Games Started:
1,460
Minutes Per Game:
33.8
Points Per Game:
20.7
Rebounds Per Game:
7.5
Assists Per Game:
2.4
Blocks Per Game:
.8
Steals Per Game:
.8
Field Goal Percentage:
47.1
Three-Point Percentage:
38.0
Free Throw Percentage:
87.9

Don Barksdale

Inducted:
2012

Personal Stats:

6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
200 lb (91 kg)

Born:
March 31, 1923
Oakland, California, U.S.

Died
March 8, 1993
Oakland, California, U.S.

Position:
Power forward
Small forward

College:
Marin (1941–1943)
UCLA (1943, 1946–1947)

Don Barksdale, born March 31, 1923, in Oakland, California, was a trailblazing figure in basketball history and a pioneer for African American athletes. Excelling at UCLA, he became the first African American to earn NCAA All-America honors in 1947. In 1948, he made history as the first African American to play for the U.S. Olympic basketball team, winning a gold medal in London.

Barksdale entered the NBA in 1951 with the Baltimore Bullets, becoming the first African American selected to an NBA All-Star Game in 1953. Known for his athleticism, smooth scoring ability, and versatility as a forward, he played four NBA seasons with the Bullets and Boston Celtics.

Beyond his playing career, Barksdale was an influential community leader, broadcaster, and entrepreneur, helping open doors for future generations. His groundbreaking achievements on and off the court were honored with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.

Barksdale's Awards & Records:

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction: 2012
First African American NCAA All-American (1947)
First African American to play for the U.S. Olympic basketball team (1948)
First African American NBA All-Star (1953)
Olympic Gold Medalist (1948)

Notable Achievements:

Paved the way for African American athletes in collegiate, Olympic, and professional basketball
One of the first Black players to have a significant role in the NBA
Recognized for both his athletic excellence and groundbreaking influence

NBA Teams:

Baltimore Bullets (1951–1953)
Boston Celtics (1953–1955)

Number Worn:
6, 17

Career Stats:

NBA Career:
1951–1955
Game Played:
262
Points:
2,895 (11.0 ppg)
Rebounds:
2,088 (8.0 rpg)
Assists:
549 (2.1 apg)
Field Goal %:
37.0%
Free Throw %:
66.0%
Olympic Gold Medal:
1948 London Games

Don Nelson

Inducted:
2012

Personal Stats:

6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
210 lb (95 kg)

Born:
May 15, 1940
Muskegon, Michigan, U.S.

Position:
Small forward
Coach

College:
Iowa (1959–1962)

Don Nelson, built a legacy as both a player and one of the most innovative coaches in NBA history. As a forward, he played 14 seasons, most notably with the Boston Celtics, winning five NBA Championships and becoming known for his reliability, hustle, and clutch shooting. Transitioning to coaching, Nelson became a trailblazer, introducing strategies such as the “point forward” role and emphasizing spacing and versatility.

Across a coaching career that spanned more than three decades, he amassed 1,335 wins, making him the NBA’s all-time winningest coach at the time of his retirement. His ability to adapt, experiment, and get the best out of his players left a lasting influence on modern basketball. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, Nelson’s combined accomplishments as a champion player and a record-setting coach stand as a rare dual achievement in league history.

Nelson's Awards & Records:

5× NBA champion (1966, 1968, 1969, 1974, 1976)
Third-team All-American – AP, NABC, UPI (1962)
3× NBA Coach of the Year (1983, 1985, 1992)
2× NBA All-Star Game head coach (1992, 2002)
Top 10 Coaches in NBA History
Top 15 Coaches in NBA History

NBA Records:

One of few individuals with championships as a player and record-setting success as a coach
Revolutionized NBA offense with creative, modern systems
Key part of Celtics dynasty and one of basketball’s most influential coaches

NBA Teams:

As a player:
Chicago Zephyrs (1962–1963)
Los Angeles Lakers (1963–1965)
Boston Celtics (1965–1976)
As a coach:
Milwaukee Bucks (1976,1976–1988)
Golden State Warriors (1988–1995,2006–2010)
New York Knicks (1995–1996)
Dallas Mavericks (1997–2005)

NBA Draft:
1962: 3rd round, 17th overall pick
Chicago Zephyrs

Number Worn:
44, 20, 19

NBA Stats:

Season Played:
14 (1962–1976)
Games Played:
1,053
Points:
10,898 (10.3 ppg)
Rebounds:
5,192 (4.9 rpg)
Assists:
1,526 (1.4 apg)
Coaching Career:
1976–2010
Career Wins:
1,335
Career Losses:
1,063
Winning Percentage:
.557

Doug Collins

Inducted:
2024

Player Stats

Stats:
6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
180 lb (82 kg)
Born:
July 28, 1951 (age 73)
Christopher, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Shooting guard

College:
Illinois State (1970–1973)

Doug Collins made his mark on the NBA as both a talented player and a respected coach. Drafted first overall in the 1973 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, Collins was a skilled shooting guard known for his smooth mid-range game and high basketball IQ.

He played his entire career with the 76ers, forming a strong backcourt duo with Julius Erving and helping lead the team to the 1977 NBA Finals.

Collins' playing career was cut short by injuries, but he transitioned into coaching, where he found lasting success. He served as head coach for the Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards, and Philadelphia 76ers, mentoring stars like Michael Jordan and Grant Hill.

His deep understanding of the game also made him a respected broadcaster. Whether as a player, coach, or analyst, Collins left a lasting impact on the NBA.

Collins's Awards

4× NBA All-Star (1976–1979)
Consensus first-team All-American (1973)
AP honorable mention All-American (1972)
2× First-team All-Midwestern (1971, 1972)
USA Olympic Team (1972, Silver Medalist)

NBA Teams

Philadelphia 76ers 1973–1981

NBA draft:
1973: 1st round, 1st overall pick
Philadelphia 76ers

Numbers Worn:
20

NBA Stats

Seasons:
8
Games Played:
415
Points:
7,427 (17.9 ppg)
Rebounds:
1,339 (3.2 rpg)
Assists:
1,368 (3.3 apg)
FG%
45.8
FT%
83.3

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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.