The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame announced its finalists for the class of 2018, and it’s among the strongest in recent history.
Among those being considered for enshrinement, Jason Kidd and Ray Allen head the class. They’re joined by Maurice Cheeks, Grant Hill, Steve Nash, Rudy Tomjanovich and Chris Webber as former NBA players being considered for basketball’s top honor.
Former WNBA players Tina Thompson and Katie Smith are also among the finalists.
The @Hoophall announces the final seven #18HoopClass Finalists: Kim Mulkey, Steve Nash, Katie Smith, Tina Thompson, Rudy Tomjanovich, Wayland Baptist Univ., and Chris Webber! pic.twitter.com/zUYBK9clsy
— NBA TV (@NBATV) February 17, 2018
Both Kidd and Hill were members of the 1994 NBA Draft class and saw their careers cross paths in a big way. Kidd earned 12 All-Star appearances during a brilliant 19-year career that saw him finish with the second-most assists in NBA history. Meanwhile, Hill was among the best players in the game before injuries took a toll on his career. He earned an All-Star appearance in each of his first six full seasons.
Steve Nash ranks third behind only John Stockton and the above-mentioned Kidd in career assists and was a two-time MVP during his illustrious 18-year career. Meanwhile, Allen earned 10 All-Star appearances and won two titles during his career.
Official Kim Mulkey and the 1954-1958 Wayland Baptist Univerity women’s basketball team that won 131 consecutive games are also among those being considered for the Hall.
Congratulations to all the finalists. Best of luck getting into the Hall this year.