Tracy McGrady, a seven-time NBA All-Star and two-time league scoring champion, has finally embraced his worthiness of being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. During his induction speech, McGrady expressed his gratitude and pride for being part of the class of 2017. He acknowledged his 15 years in the league and the impact he made, particularly with the Toronto Raptors, Orlando Magic, and Houston Rockets.
Joining McGrady in the Hall of Fame are 10 other basketball greats, including former ABA and NBA star George McGinnis, former UConn and WNBA star Rebecca Lobo, Kansas men’s coach Bill Self, and Notre Dame women’s coach Muffet McGraw. The class also includes other esteemed individuals who have made significant contributions to basketball.
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McGrady’s celebration, however, was tempered by the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in Texas. Despite the challenges, he and his wife, Clerenda, opened their home to relatives and friends affected by the storm. McGrady also organized a Labor Day feast for victims of the hurricane in the Houston area.
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The induction ceremony also featured powerful speeches from the honorees. Mannie Jackson, a former Harlem Globetrotter and now team owner, delivered a speech calling for unity in a divided nation. He emphasized the importance of non-discrimination and integration in society. Rebecca Lobo and Muffet McGraw highlighted the growth of women’s basketball and expressed gratitude for Title IX, which has opened doors for women in the sport.
Bill Self, on the other hand, admitted feeling somewhat uncomfortable being inducted in the middle of his coaching career. However, he sees it as motivation to continue working hard and validating his place among the distinguished members of the Hall of Fame.
Tom Jernstedt, an NCAA administrator credited with overseeing the growth of both the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, expressed admiration for the entire class. While their names might not be as recognizable as superstars like Michael Jordan or Shaquille O’Neal, their contributions to the sport are truly remarkable.
The Hall of Fame induction ceremony not only celebrates the accomplishments of these individuals but also serves as an inspiration for future generations to pursue excellence in the game of basketball.
FAQs
What are the criteria for being inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame?
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The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame considers various factors when selecting inductees. These factors include a player’s performance, championships won, individual accolades, impact on the game, and overall contribution to the sport. Coaches, referees, administrators, and other individuals who have made significant contributions to basketball are also eligible for induction.
How long does the selection process for the Hall of Fame take?
The selection process for the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame takes several months. A committee evaluates the candidates based on the established criteria and narrows down the list. The final selection is made by a committee of Hall of Fame members, basketball experts, and media representatives.
Are there any eligibility requirements for Hall of Fame induction?
To be eligible for induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, players must be retired from professional play for at least three seasons. Coaches, referees, and other individuals must also meet certain criteria, such as having a significant impact on the game or making significant contributions to basketball.
Summary
Tracy McGrady, Rebecca Lobo, Bill Self, and other basketball greats were inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2017. McGrady finally acknowledged his worthiness as he celebrated his 15-year career in the NBA. Alongside him, Rebecca Lobo and Bill Self were recognized for their contributions to women’s and men’s basketball, respectively. The induction ceremony also saw powerful speeches from Mannie Jackson and Tom Jernstedt, highlighting the importance of unity and the growth of the sport. The event serves as an inspiration for future generations to strive for greatness in the game of basketball. Visit Osceolagarage.com for more sports-related news and updates.
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