Gaze nominated for Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame

The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame recently announced the list of eligible candidates for the Class of 2026, featuring seven-time NBL MVP Andrew Gaze.

The two-time NBL champion and former Australian Opal Penny Taylor, who both also shortlisted last year, are among 24 international nominees for next year's class.

Joining those two on the list are players Jean-Jacques Conceicao, Mirza Delibasic, Jorge Garbajosa, Marc Gasol, Panagiotis Giannakis, Giuseppe Giergia, J.R. Holden, Dusan Ivkovic, Andrei Kirilenko, Marcos Leite, Juan Carlos Navarro, Andres Nocioni, Fabricio Oberto, Jose Ortiz, Amaury Pasos, Modesto Palauskas, Togo Soares and Amaya Valdemore and coaches David Blatt, Vladimir Kondrashin, Ettore Messina and Ranko Zeravica.

“The candidates for the Class of 2026 have each left an indelible impact on the game of basketball,” President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, John L. Doleva said.

“Through defining performances, influential leadership, and achievements that helped elevate the sport on the national and international stage, this year’s ballot recognises those whose legacy continues to shape how the game is played, coached, and celebrated.”

The Finalist and Class Announcement times will be announced by Monday, February 9.