Search by the First Name of the HOFers
Hank Nichols
Inducted:
2012
Personal Stats:
Born:
July 20, 1936
Niagara Falls, New York
Position:
NBA referee
College:
NA
Hank Nichols, born July 20, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, earned recognition as one of basketball’s most respected referees and administrators. Known for his steady presence, deep knowledge of the game, and fairness, Nichols officiated at the highest levels of college and international basketball. He worked multiple NCAA Final Fours and was selected to officiate in both the 1976 and 1984 Olympic Games, representing the sport on a global stage.
Beyond his on-court career, Nichols became the NCAA’s National Coordinator of Officials, a role in which he trained and developed referees while helping to set higher standards of professionalism and consistency in officiating. His lifelong dedication to the integrity of basketball officiating elevated the respect for referees within the game.
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, Nichols’ career reflects a commitment to fairness, leadership, and improving the sport through excellence in officiating and mentorship.
Nichols's Awards & Records:
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame induction: 2012
- Inducted into several officiating and sports Halls of Fame
- Widely regarded as a leader in referee training and development
Notable Achievements:
- First referee selected to officiate in both Olympic Games and NCAA Final Fours
- Standard-setter for officiating professionalism in college basketball
- Mentored generations of referees through NCAA leadership
Career:
NCAA Basketball referee
Officiating career: 1986–2007
Career Overview:
- Officiated NCAA basketball games for decades
- Worked 10 NCAA Final Fours
- Officiated Olympic Games: 1972, 1984
- Served as NCAA National Coordinator of Officials for 22 years
Harley Redin
Inducted:
2024
Player Stats
Born:
August 29, 1919
Silverton, Texas
Died:
August 1, 2020
Position:
Coach
College:
Na
Harley Redin was not an NBA player but a highly respected basketball coach, best known for his contributions to women’s basketball.
He was a pioneering coach at Wayland Baptist University, where he led the Wayland Baptist Flying Queens to dominance in the 1950s and 1960s.
Under Redin’s leadership, the Flying Queens won six AAU national championships and set a women’s basketball record with a 131-game winning streak.
His emphasis on fast-paced, disciplined play helped revolutionize the sport, influencing generations of coaches and players.
Redin's Awards
- 6× AAU National Championships (1956, 1957, 1959, 1961, 1970, 1971)
- Led Wayland Baptist Flying Queens to a 131-game winning streak (1953–1958)
- Inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame (1999)
- Inducted into the Texas Sports Hall of Fame
- Head Coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team in international competitions
- Helped transition women’s basketball from the six-player format to the modern five-player game
- Pioneered fast-paced, full-court pressure style in women's basketball
Team
Coaching Stats
Coaching Tenure:
1955–1973
Seasons:
18
Win:
429
Loose:
63
Winning Percentage:
.860
National Championships:
6 AAU Titles
Herb Magee
Inducted:
2011
Personal Stats:
5 ft 10 in; (68 kg)
Born:
June 21, 1941
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
NA
Herb Magee, known as the “Shot Doctor,” built one of the most remarkable coaching legacies in basketball history. As the longtime head coach at Philadelphia University, Magee guided the program for over five decades, earning recognition for his ability to develop talent and instill discipline. Renowned for his expertise in shooting, he became a mentor to countless players at every level, from high school athletes to NBA professionals, shaping the way the game was taught.
Magee’s career coaching record surpassed 1,100 victories, making him one of the winningest coaches in NCAA history. Beyond wins, he was celebrated for loyalty, spending his entire career at one institution and building a culture defined by respect, hard work, and skill development.
Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2011, Magee’s impact as a teacher of the game continues to inspire coaches and players alike. His career stands as a model of excellence, commitment, and basketball knowledge.
Magee's Awards & Records:
- NCAA College Division II tournament (1970)
- 5× CACC tournament (2008, 2009, 2014, 2015, 2018)
- CACC regular season (2007)
- 6× CACC South Division regular season (2008–2010, 2012, 2014, 2017)
NBA Records:
- One of the all-time winningest coaches in NCAA basketball history
- Spent entire career at one institution
- Recognized as one of the greatest shooting instructors in basketball
- Helped shape generations of players and coaches across all levels
NBA Teams:
Philadelphia Textile/Philadelphia/Jefferson (1963–2022)
NBA Draft:
1963: 62nd pick
Boston Celtics
NBA Stats:
Coaching Career:
1967–2022
Total Wins:
1,144
Overall Wins:
1,144
Losses:
450
Win(%)
.718
Herb Simon
Inducted:
2024
Stats
Born:
October 23, 1934
New York City, U.S.
Position:
Contributor – Owner
College:
NA
Herb Simon is the longtime owner of the Indiana Pacers, having purchased the team in 1983 alongside his late brother, Mel Simon. Under his leadership, the Pacers have become one of the NBA’s most stable franchises, consistently competing at a high level and making multiple deep playoff runs.
Simon played a crucial role in keeping the Pacers in Indianapolis, ensuring the team remained a key part of the city's sports culture.
Beyond basketball, Simon is a highly successful businessman, known for his work in real estate as the chairman of Simon Property Group, one of the world’s largest shopping mall operators.
His impact on both sports and business earned him widespread recognition, making him one of the most influential owners in NBA history.
Simon's Awards
- Owner of Indiana Pacers since 1983
- Led Pacers to multiple Eastern Conference Finals and an NBA Finals appearance (2000)
- Helped secure Gainbridge Fieldhouse (formerly Conseco Fieldhouse) for the Pacers
- Key figure in keeping the Pacers in Indianapolis
- Herb is the longest-tenured NBA owner.
Team
Owner Stats
Occupation:
Chairman emeritus(Simon Property Group)
Ownership Team:
Indiana Pacers
Ownership Since:
1983
Co-Owner(Team):
Indiana Fever
Howard Garfinkel
Inducted:
2021
Player Stats
5 ft 9 in (175 cm)
165 lbs (75 kg)
Born:
August 1, 1929
New York City, U.S.
Died:
May 7, 2016
New York City, U.S.
Position:
Contributor
College:
City College
Howard Garfinkel was a legendary figure in grassroots basketball, best known as the founder of the Five-Star Basketball Camp, which helped launch the careers of hundreds of NBA and college stars. Established in 1966, Five-Star became the premier developmental camp in the country, featuring alumni like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Patrick Ewing, and Chris Paul. Garfinkel was a master talent evaluator and a trusted source for college recruiters for decades.
He also co-founded the High School Basketball Illustrated (HSBI) scouting service, revolutionizing how talent was tracked and recruited. Beyond his eye for talent, “Garf” created a competitive culture at Five-Star that emphasized fundamentals, coaching excellence, and intensity. His legacy is woven into the careers of Hall of Famers and top-tier coaches, many of whom credit him for their development. Garfinkel was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016 as a contributor.
Garfinkel's Awards and Records
- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee (2016, Contributor)
- Five-Star Basketball Camp credited with shaping modern scouting/recruiting
- Recognized by countless NCAA and NBA legends
- Promoted high-level competition and elite coaching clinics
- Instrumental in the development of basketball’s summer circuit culture
- Called “the godfather of grassroots basketball”
Career Stats
Founder
Five-Star Basketball Camp (1966–2008)
Co-Founder
HSBI Scouting Service (1965–2000s)
Estimated NBA Players Influenced:
500+
Estimated College Coaches Influenced:
100+
Notable Alumni:
Michael Jordan, Moses Malone, Isiah Thomas, Grant Hill, Karl-Anthony Towns
Legendary Coaches at Camp:
Bobby Knight, Rick Pitino, Hubie Brown, John Calipari
Immaculata University
Inducted:
2014
Nickname:
The Mighty Macs
Players:
Theresa Shank Grentz
Marianne Crawford Stanley
Mary Scharff
Judy Marra
Maureen Mooney
Denise Conway
Pat Kehoe
Ann Crawford
Mary Anne Hannigan
Coaches:
Cathy Rush
Immaculata University’s women’s basketball program holds a special place in history as a dominant force during the early years of the sport’s modern era. Coached by Cathy Rush, the Mighty Macs captured three consecutive AIAW national championships from 1972 to 1974, becoming the first dynasty in women’s college basketball.
Competing without athletic scholarships, state-of-the-art facilities, or national exposure, Immaculata’s teams relied on discipline, teamwork, and determination to revolutionize the women’s game. Their success helped pave the way for the NCAA’s sponsorship of women’s sports and inspired future generations of female athletes.
Recognized for their groundbreaking impact and championship excellence, the 1972–1974 Mighty Macs were collectively inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014 as Team.
Awards and Records:
- Three consecutive national championships (1972–1974)
- Coached by Hall of Famer Cathy Rush
- First dynasty in women’s college basketball
- Hall of Fame Inductee (Contributors, 2014)
Team Stats:
National Championships:
3 (1972, 1973, 1974)
Winning Streak:
35 consecutive victories
Jack Sikma
Inducted:
2019
Player Stats
6 ft 11 in (2.11 m)
230 lb (104 kg)
Born:
November 14, 1955
Kankakee, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Center
Power Forward
College:
Illinois Wesleyan (1973–1977)
Jack Sikma was one of the most skilled big men of his era, known for his high basketball IQ, unique footwork, and deadly shooting touch. Playing 14 NBA seasons with the Seattle SuperSonics and Milwaukee Bucks, Sikma brought versatility to the center position.
He was a seven-time All-Star and a key piece in Seattle’s 1979 NBA Championship team, where his rebounding and shot-making played a crucial role. Offensively, Sikma was best known for his signature “Sikma move”—a high-release turnaround jumper that was nearly unblockable. He also led the league in free throw percentage among centers multiple times, showcasing his shooting range and poise. Defensively, he was a strong rebounder and interior presence.
Sikma retired with over 17,000 points and 10,000 rebounds, joining an elite group of big men to reach both marks. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.
Sikma's Awards & Honors:
- NBA champion (1979)
- 7× NBA All-Star (1979–1985)
- NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1982)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1978)
- 43 retired by Seattle SuperSonics
- 2× First-team NCAA Division III All-American (1976, 1977)
- Third-team NCAA Division III All-American (1975)
- 3× CCIW Player of the Year (1975–1977)
NBA Records:
- One of only 16 players in NBA history with over 17,000 points and 10,000 rebounds
- 7 consecutive All-Star appearances (1979–1985)
- Only center in NBA history to lead the league in free throw percentage for a full season
NBA Teams:
As a player:
Seattle SuperSonics (1977–1986)
Milwaukee Bucks (1986–1991)
As a coach:
Seattle SuperSonics (2003–2007)
Houston Rockets (2007–2011)
Minnesota Timberwolves (2011–2014)
NBA Draft:
1977: 1st round, 8th overall pick
Seattle SuperSonics
Number Worn:
43
NBA Stats:
Seasons:
14 (1977–1991)
Games Played:
1,107
Points:
17,287
Rebounds:
10,816
Assists:
3,294
Blocks:
1,076
Steals:
970
Points Per Game:
15.6
Rebounds Per Game:
9.8
Free Throw %:
.849
Field Goal %:
.464
Jamaal Wilkes
Inducted:
2012
Personal Stats:
6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
May 2, 1953
Berkeley, California, U.S.
Position:
Small forward
College:
UCLA (1971–1974)
Jamaal Wilkes, born May 2, 1953, in Berkeley, California, was one of the smoothest and most reliable forwards in NBA history. Nicknamed “Silk” for his effortless style, Wilkes built his game on precision shooting, intelligent defense, and unselfish play. Drafted in 1974 by the Golden State Warriors, he won Rookie of the Year and helped lead the team to the NBA championship that same season.
He later became a key piece of the Los Angeles Lakers’ Showtime dynasty, playing alongside Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Over 12 NBA seasons, Wilkes scored 14,644 points (17.7 PPG), collected 5,117 rebounds, and earned a reputation as one of the league’s most dependable two-way players. He was a three-time All-Star and four-time NBA champion, contributing both scoring bursts and steady defense in clutch moments.
Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012, Wilkes remains celebrated as one of the most consistent and quietly brilliant forwards in the game’s history.
Wilkes's Awards & Records:
- 4× NBA champion (1975, 1980, 1982, 1985)
- 3× NBA All-Star (1976, 1981, 1983)
- 2× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (1976, 1977)
- NBA Rookie of the Year (1975)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1975)
NBA Records:
- Scored 37 points in 1985 NBA Finals Game 6 clincher
- Key contributor to Warriors’ 1975 championship run
- One of few players to win titles with two franchises
NBA Teams:
Golden State Warriors (1974–1977)
Los Angeles Lakers (1977–1985)
Los Angeles Clippers (1985)
NBA Draft:
1974: 1st round, 11th overall pick
Golden State Warriors
Number Worn:
41, 52
NBA Stats:
Season:
12 (1974-1986)
Games Played:
828
Game Started:
245
Points:
14,644 (17.7 ppg)
Rebounds:
5,117 (6.2 rpg)
Assists:
2,050 (2.5 apg)
Field Goal %:
49.9%
Free Throw %:
75.9%
Point Per Game:
17.7
Jason Kidd
Inducted:
2018
Player Stats:
6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
210 lb (95 kg)
Born:
March 23, 1973
San Francisco, California, U.S.
Position:
Point guard
College:
California (1992–1994)
Jason Kidd was one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, known for his elite court vision, rebounding, and tenacious defense. From the moment he entered the league in 1994, Kidd controlled the game’s tempo and made everyone around him better. He earned Co-Rookie of the Year honors alongside Grant Hill and went on to tally over 12,000 assists — second-most in NBA history at the time of his retirement.
Kidd led the New Jersey Nets to back-to-back NBA Finals in the early 2000s, transforming them into contenders. He finished his 19-year career with a championship in 2011 with the Dallas Mavericks, rounding out a résumé that also included 10 All-Star selections and five All-NBA nods. Known for triple-doubles and lockdown defense, Kidd’s basketball IQ extended into coaching, where he became a respected leader on the sidelines. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018.
Kidd's Awards & Records:
- NBA champion (2011)
- 10× NBA All-Star (1996, 1998, 2000–2004, 2007, 2008, 2010)
- 5× All-NBA First Team (1999–2002, 2004)
- All-NBA Second Team (2003)
- 4× NBA All-Defensive First Team (1999, 2001, 2002, 2006)
- 5× NBA All-Defensive Second Team (2000, 2003–2005, 2007)
- NBA Rookie of the Year (1995)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1995)
- 5× NBA assists leader (1999–2001, 2003, 2004)
- USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (2007)
- NBA 75th Anniversary Team
NBA Records:
- 2nd all-time in career assists – 12,091
- 2nd all-time in career steals – 2,684
- 4th in NBA history in triple-doubles – 107
- Led the NBA in assists 5 times (1999–2001, 2003–2004)
- Only player in NBA history with at least 17,000 points, 12,000 assists, 8,000 rebounds, and 2,500 steals
- Considered one of the most complete and intelligent point guards in NBA history
Career Teams:
Dallas Mavericks 1994–1996
Phoenix Suns 1996–2001
New Jersey Nets 2001–2008
Dallas Mavericks 2008–2012
New York Knicks 2012–2013
NBA Draft:
1994: 1st round, 2nd overall pick
Dallas Mavericks
Number Worn:
5, 32, 2
NBA Stats:
Seasons:
19 (1994–2013)
Games Played:
1,391
Points:
17,529 (12.6 PPG)
Assists:
12,091 (8.7 APG)
Rebounds:
8,725 (6.3 RPG)
Steals:
2,684 (1.9 SPG)
FG %:
40.0%
3P %:
34.9%
Triple-Doubles:
107
Jay Wright
Inducted:
2021
Player Stats
Born:
December 24, 1961
Churchville, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
NA
Jay Wright became one of college basketball’s most respected coaches through his time at Villanova, where he built a modern powerhouse.
Known for his sharp suits and even sharper basketball mind, Wright led the Wildcats to two NCAA championships (2016, 2018) and four Final Four appearances. His teams were known for their unselfish play, strong defense, and three-point shooting.
Over 21 seasons at Villanova, he compiled over 600 career wins, won multiple Big East titles, and developed numerous NBA players. Though he never coached in the NBA, his influence on the pro game is visible through the success of his players and coaching philosophy.
He retired from coaching in 2022 and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021.
Wright's Awards and Records
- 2 NCAA Division I tournament (2016, 2018)
- 4 NCAA Division I regional—Final Four (2009, 2016, 2018, 2022)
- 2 America East tournament (2000, 2001)
- 2 America East regular season (2000, 2001)
- 5 Big East tournament (2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022)
- 8 Big East regular season (2006, 2014–2017, 2019, 2021)
- 2× Naismith College Coach of the Year (2006, 2016)
- NABC Coach of the Year (2006)
- John R. Wooden Legends of Coaching Award (2018)
- AP Coach of the Decade (2010s)
- 2× America East Coach of the Year (2000, 2001)
- 6× Big East Coach of the Year (2006, 2009, 2014–2016, 2019)
NBA Teams
Rochester (assistant) 1984–1986
Drexel (assistant) 1986–1987
Villanova (assistant) 1987–1992
UNLV (assistant) 1992–1994
Hofstra 1994–2001
Villanova 2001–2022
Career Stats
College Seasons:
28 (Hofstra 1994–2001, Villanova 2001–2022)
Career Record:
642–282 (.695)
Villanova Record:
520–197
NCAA Titles:
2 (2016, 2018)
Final Fours:
4 (2009, 2016, 2018, 2022)
NCAA Tournament Appearances:
16
Jerry Krause
Inducted:
2017
Player Stats:
Born:
April 6, 1939
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Died:
March 21, 2017
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Contributor
College:
Bradley University
Jerry Krause was the mastermind behind the Chicago Bulls’ six NBA championships in the 1990s. As general manager from 1985 to 2003, he built championship rosters by drafting key players like Scottie Pippen, Horace Grant, Toni Kukoc, and trading for Dennis Rodman, while hiring Phil Jackson to coach. Working behind the scenes, Krause assembled all contributors except Michael Jordan, creating two separate three-peats that transformed the Bulls into a global powerhouse.
His sharp eye for talent and bold roster moves earned him NBA Executive of the Year twice. Though often underappreciated during his career, his leadership and vision reshaped NBA team-building. Enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017 as a contributor, Krause’s legacy endures as one of the greatest architects in basketball history.
Krause's Awards & Records:
- 6× NBA champion (1991–1993, 1996–1998)
- 2× NBA Executive of the Year (1988, 1996)
- Chicago Bulls Ring of Honor
- Built two NBA three-peats during the Jordan-Pippen era
- Recognized as master talent evaluator, drafting and acquiring multiple Hall of Fame-level players
Career :
As General Manager-
Chicago Bulls (1985 to 2003)
Notable Contributions:
Chicago Bulls GM and Executive VP (1985–2003):
Architect of six NBA titles: 1991–93 and 1996–98
NBA Executive of the Year:
1988 and 1996
Draft & Transactions Highlights:
Acquired Pippen, Grant, Kukoc; traded for Cartwright and Rodman; signed Harper, Kerr, Longley, Paxson
Scout for NBA & MLB teams:
Instrumental in discovering Earl Monroe, Wes Unseld, Michael Cooper, Jerry Sloan among others
Jerry Reinsdorf
Inducted:
2016
Player Stats:
Born:
Jerry Michael Reinsdorf
February 25, 1936
New York City, U.S.
Position:
Contributor
College:
NA
Jerry Reinsdorf is a prominent sports owner best known for guiding the Chicago Bulls through one of the most dominant eras in NBA history. Purchasing the team in 1985, he played a crucial role in building the championship rosters of the 1990s, centered around Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and coach Phil Jackson. Under his leadership, the Bulls captured six NBA titles in eight years (1991–1993, 1996–1998), becoming a global basketball brand.
Reinsdorf was known for his business acumen, balancing on-court success with financial stability, and fostering an organizational culture that emphasized winning. His influence extended beyond basketball, as he also became a key figure in shaping league policies and promoting the NBA worldwide. In recognition of his contributions to the game, Reinsdorf was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016, cementing his legacy as one of the most successful owners in professional sports.
Reinsdorf's Awards & Records:
- Six-time NBA champion
- 2005 World Series champion
- Three-time Midwest League champion
- Oversaw the Bulls’ rise to become a global sports brand
- 1990 Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement
- 2011 Jefferson Award for Public Service
Teams :
Chicago Bulls (Owner)
Chicago White Sox (Owner)
Career Stats:
NBA Team Owned:
Chicago Bulls (1985–present)
NBA Championships:
6 (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998)
Hall of Fame Induction:
2016
Seasons as Owner:
40+
Bulls Playoff Appearances Under Ownership:
22+
Jerry West
Inducted:
2024
Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
175 lb (79 kg)
Born:
May 28, 1938
Chelyan, West Virginia, U.S.
Died:
June 12, 2024
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Position:
Contributor – Executive
College:
West Virginia (1957–1960)
Jerry West, known as “Mr. Clutch,” made an extraordinary impact both as a player and as a front-office legend. After a Hall of Fame playing career with the Lakers, West transitioned into an executive role and helped build dynasties across the league.
As the Lakers' general manager, he shaped the iconic "Showtime" era and later laid the groundwork for the Kobe-Shaq era, bringing five championships to L.A. He also turned the Memphis Grizzlies into a playoff team and was a key consultant for the Golden State Warriors’ rise, including their 2015 and 2017 titles.
In his final executive role with the Clippers, West helped engineer the acquisitions of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
His vision, basketball IQ, and leadership influenced generations and earned him a second induction into the Hall of Fame in 2024—this time as a contributor.
Jerry's Awards
- 8× NBA champion (1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, 1988, 2000, 2015, 2017)
- 2× NBA Executive of the Year (1995, 2004)
- Architect of the "Showtime Lakers"
- Drafted and acquired Kobe Bryant & Shaquille O’Neal
- Built Memphis Grizzlies’ first playoff teams
- Advised Warriors to two championships (2015, 2017)
- Hall of Fame Inductee (Player – 1980, Contributor – 2024)
- NBA logo silhouette inspiration
Executive Career
Los Angeles Lakers
General Manager (1979-2000)
Memphis Grizzlies
President of Basketball Operations (2002–2007)
Golden State Warriors
Adviser (2011–2017)
Los Angeles Clippers
Consultant (2017–2024)
Player Stats
Points
25,192
Points per game:
27.0 (4th in NBA history)
Assists:
6,238 (5th in NBA history)
Rebounds
5,366 (5.8 rpg)
Assists
6,238 (6.7 apg)
All-Star Selections:
14
All-NBA First Team:
10
NBA All-Defensive First Team:
4
NBA Finals MVP:
1969
NBA Championship:
1972
Jim Valvano
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
Born:
March 10, 1946
Queens, New York, U.S.
Died:
April 28, 1993
Durham, North Carolina, U.S.
Position:
Coach
College:
Rutgers
Jim Valvano, famously known as “Jimmy V,” was a legendary college basketball coach and inspirational figure. Best remembered for leading NC State to an improbable NCAA Championship in 1983, Valvano inspired millions with his passion for life, sports, and perseverance.
A former Rutgers point guard, he transitioned into coaching with stints at Johns Hopkins, Bucknell, Iona, and NC State, compiling a career coaching record of 346–210. Beyond the court, Valvano became a beloved broadcaster and, during his battle with cancer, delivered one of sports history’s most moving speeches at the 1993 ESPYs.
That moment sparked the founding of the V Foundation for Cancer Research, which continues to raise millions for cancer treatment. His motto, “Don’t give up. Don’t ever give up,” lives on through his enduring legacy.
Valvano was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023 for his contributions to basketball and his inspirational impact far beyond it.
Valvano's Awards and Records
- 1989 ACC Coach of the Year
- 1993 Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award
- 1967 Rutgers Senior Athlete of the Year
- Rutgers Basketball Hall of Fame (1993)
- North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame (1995)
- New York City Basketball Hall of Fame (1999)
- Hall of Distinguished Alumni, Rutgers University (1999)
- National Italian-American Sports Hall of Fame (2004)
- Won 1983 NCAA Championship
- Won two ACC Tournament championships (1983, `87)
- Won two ACC regular-season championships (1985, `89)
Coaching Career Teams
Rutgers (assistant) 1967–1969
Johns Hopkins 1969–1970
Connecticut (assistant) 1970–1972
Bucknell 1972–1975
Iona 1975–1980
NC State 1980–1990
Career Stats
Coaching Tenure:
1967-1990
Total Wins:
346
Total Losses:
210
Winning Percentage
.622
NCAA Tournament Appearances:
9
Record:
15–8
Final Four:
1 (1983)
Championships:
1 (1983)
Jo Jo White
Inducted:
2015
Player Stats:
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
November 16, 1946
St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.
Died:
January 16, 2018
Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
Position:
Point guard
College:
Kansas (1965–1969)
Jo Jo White was the heart and soul of the Boston Celtics during the 1970s, known for his durability, clutch shooting, and leadership at point guard. Drafted ninth overall in 1969, White became a central figure in Boston’s transition after Bill Russell’s retirement. He played 10 seasons with the Celtics, guiding the team to two NBA championships in 1974 and 1976. White’s relentless style and consistency earned him seven consecutive All-Star selections.
His most iconic performance came in the 1976 NBA Finals, when he played 60 minutes and scored 33 points in the legendary triple-overtime Game 5 against Phoenix, earning Finals MVP. Renowned for his ironman streak, he played 488 consecutive games and was a steady two-way presence throughout his career. White retired with over 14,000 career points and left a legacy of resilience and excellence. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2015, he remains one of the Celtics’ all-time great guards.
White's Awards & Records:
- 2× NBA champion (1974, 1976)
- NBA Finals MVP (1976)
- 7× NBA All-Star (1971–1977)
- 2× All-NBA Second Team (1975, 1977)
- NBA All-Rookie First Team (1970)
- 2× Consensus second-team All-American (1968, 1969)
NBA Teams:
Boston Celtics (1969–1979)
Golden State Warriors (1979–1980)
Kansas City Kings (1980–1981)
Topeka Sizzlers (1987)
NBA Draft:
1969: 1st round, 9th overall pick
Boston Celtics
Number Worn:
10, 12
NBA Stats:
Seasons:
1969–1981
Games Played:
837
Points:
14,399 (17.2 ppg)
Rebounds:
3,345 (4.0 rpg)
Assists:
4,095 (4.9 apg)
FG %:
44.4%
3P %:
16.7%
FT %:
83.4
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.
