The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame has released its list of 189 candidates for the Class of 2025, which includes some of basketball’s most iconic figures. Carmelo Anthony, Sue Bird, and Maya Moore are among the 39 first-time nominees, joining a star-studded lineup of NBA and WNBA veterans.
Along with the announcement, the Hall of Fame provided a significant modification to its eligibility rules. Previously, players had to be retired for three complete seasons to qualify; however, the waiting period has been reduced to two seasons.
“To better recognize the distinguished careers of potential first-ballot nominees in a more timely manner, the Board has appropriately shortened the waiting period,” said Jerry Colangelo, Hall of Fame chairman.
Carmelo Anthony: A Career to Remember
Carmelo Anthony, a 10-time All-Star and six-time All-NBA pick, is among the most decorated first-time nominees. Throughout his 19-year NBA career, Anthony played for six different teams, most notably the Denver Nuggets and New York Knicks, averaging 22.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 1,260 games.
Anthony’s career highlights include:
- NBA scoring champion (2012-13)
- NCAA National Champion with Syracuse (2002-03)
- Member of the 2008 U.S. Men’s Olympic “Redeem Team,” which is also being reconsidered for Hall of Fame induction
Sue Bird and Maya Moore: WNBA Legends
Sue Bird and Maya Moore lead a strong female nomination field. Both were game changers in the WNBA, earning four championships each over their lengthy careers.
Sue Bird, a 13-time WNBA All-Star, spent her entire career with the Seattle Storm, where she established herself as one of the league’s most popular and successful players.
Maya Moore, the 2014 WNBA MVP, was a six-time All-Star for the Minnesota Lynx and a dominant player throughout her career.
Other notable nominees in the women’s category include Sylvia Fowles, Chamique Holdsclaw, and successful trainers Lisa Bluder, Doug Bruno, and Mike Thibault.
NBA First-Time Nominees
In addition to Anthony, several notable NBA stars are eligible for the first time:
- Dwight Howard: Three-time Defensive Player of the Year
- Amar’e Stoudemire: Six-time All-Star
- Robert Horry: Seven-time NBA Champion
Coaches Doc Rivers, Billy Donovan, and Mark Few are also on the ballot, adding even more depth to this year’s nominees.
The Class of 2025 finalists will be announced during NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco on February 14. The honorees will be presented at the NCAA Men’s Final Four in San Antonio on April 5.
This year’s list pledges to recognize basketball brilliance across generations, leagues, and levels. Stay tuned for what promises to be one of the most interesting Hall of Fame classes in recent years!