Penny Hardaway added as nominee for 2024 HOF class
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame added Penny Hardaway as a nominee for the class of 2024, the organization announced Friday.
Hardaway, who is currently the head coach at the University of Memphis, played 14 seasons in the Association with the Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and Miami Heat.
Hardaway's most notable accomplishments came as a member of the Magic. Over six campaigns, the former No. 3 overall pick earned four All-Star selections and three All-NBA nods and guided Orlando to a Finals appearance.
Despite multiple injuries, Hardaway ranks in the franchise's top 10 in numerous categories, including points, assists, steals, and free-throw attempts. He was also a member of the 1996 U.S. Olympic men's basketball team that won gold in Atlanta.
Walter Davis, who died in November, was also nominated for the Hall of Fame. The 6-foot-6 wing starred at North Carolina before the Suns drafted him fifth overall.
Davis was a six-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA second-team member, and the 1978 NBA Rookie of the Year. Phoenix retired his No. 6 in 1994.
Hardaway and Davis join a list of first-time candidates that includes Vince Carter, Bill Laimbeer, and Rick Barnes.