Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard and the 2008 “Redeem Team” Headline 2025 Naismith Hall of Fame Class
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
By: Joshua Martin
The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame welcomed in its 2025 class this past weekend. A star studded group headlined by NBA icons Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard, alongside WNBA greats Maya Moore and Sylvia Fowles. The iconic 2008 U.S. Olympic men’s basketball squad, known as the Redeem Team featuring the late great Kobe Bryant, was also enshrined alongside longtime referee Danny Crawford, Miami Heat owner Micky Arison, WNBA Legend Sue Bird and Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan.
Melo, a 10 time All Star and one of the game’s most prolific mid range scorers, delivered one of the evening’s most emotional moments with a tribute to his late father.
“You left this world too soon, but you never left me. Your blood runs in mine. Your dream lives through me. This Hall of Fame jacket that I receive, I wear it for the both of us.”
"You left this world too soon but you never left me."
— NBA (@NBA) September 7, 2025
- Carmelo Anthony gives a shoutout to his father 🫶
📺 Class of 2025 Enshrinement Ceremony on NBA TV pic.twitter.com/IBatQMDMc3
Howard, a ferocious rebounder, eight time All Star and three time Defensive Player of the Year, reflected on the role his family played in his journey.
“You believed in me as much as I did but you wanted me to commit to it. I wrote down my goals and placed it above my bed along with my cross and you helped me achieve those goals, day after day.”
"Pops, mom your son is in the Hall of Fame."
— NBA (@NBA) September 6, 2025
Dwight Howard gives a special shoutout to his parents during his @Hoophall speech 🥹
📺 Class of 2025 Enshrinement Ceremony on NBA TV pic.twitter.com/qiQ6ZGqP3q
Moore, who retired early to focus on criminal justice reform, challenged future players to find joy in the game.
“There’s a lot of pressure to be motivated by fear. I want to challenge you up and comers to learn to love and seek out joy and connection as your biggest motivator.”
Auntie Maya has entered the chat 😂💬
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 7, 2025
Maya Moore gives advice to the next generation of athletes!#25HoopClass pic.twitter.com/YCMCjHTcp9
This 2025 class stands as a testament to basketball excellence and legacy. Featuring some of the most iconic names in the sport, this class will definitely be a memorable one.
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