We’ve cheered for their buzzer-beaters, been inspired by their passion, and relished their unforgettable performances—but they’re not in the Hall of Fame, at least not yet. Let’s count down the top 10 NBA stars who continue to capture our hearts while awaiting their well-deserved Hall of Fame induction.
Lamar Odom
Widely regarded for his incredible versatility, Lamar Odom could play nearly any position on the court. A key contributor to two Lakers championships, his unique skill set and ability to shine in clutch moments made him a standout—yet he remains outside the Hall of Fame.
Joe Johnson
When the game was on the line, fans knew to look for Joe Johnson—”Iso Joe”—to take control. A seven-time All-Star and go-to scorer for multiple teams, he was celebrated for creating his own shot under pressure. His impressive career and knack for delivering in crunch time have yet to earn him Hall of Fame recognition.
Shawn Kemp
Despite six All-Star selections, Shawn Kemp remains absent from the Hall of Fame. This Seattle SuperSonics legend lit up arenas with his raw energy and jaw-dropping dunks, and his fierce, high-flying style still echoes in highlight reels and basketball lore.
Robert Horry
Horry’s “Big Shot” moments are still part of NBA lore. Noted for his clutch throwing, Robert Horry hit game-winning shots on the biggest stages. With seven NBA championships, he’s a proven winner, though his role as a supporting player seems to have kept him from the Hall of Fame.
Mark Jackson
Thanks to his precise court vision and unselfish play, Mark Jackson ranks high on the NBA’s all-time assists list. Still, the Hall of Fame call hasn’t come for him yet. He was great at setting up teammates with perfect passes and leading with skill and heart.
Tom Chambers
Chambers earned All-Star honors but hasn’t seen the Hall of Fame. Fans still celebrate his scoring feats and hope for his future induction. As an unstoppable forward, Tom Chambers scored over 20,000 points during his career, dazzling fans with his high-flying moves and powerful dunks.
Horace Grant’s Winning Style
He’s a memorable player whose career impacted the league deeply. Horace Grant contributed to four NBA championships, providing defensive grit and rebounding strength to teams like the Bulls and Lakers. Famed for his iconic goggles and tenacious play, Grant’s Hall of Fame absence surprises many.
Detlef Schrempf
As a shooter and team player, Detlef Schrempf paved the way for international players in the NBA with his impressive skills. Though his consistent play and versatility made him an All-Star, he remains outside the Hall of Fame. His impact continues to inspire global basketball talent.
Chuck Person
Although not in the Hall of Fame, Chuck Person’s skills and influence still resonate with today’s NBA players. Known as “The Rifleman” for his deadly accuracy from beyond the arc, Person’s scoring ability and sharpshooting made him a valuable player on the court.
Rasheed Wallace
Intense and energetic on the court, he excelled in both defense and scoring, often clashing with referees due to his passion. Rasheed Wallace’s achievements have yet to earn him a Hall of Fame invitation, much to the surprise of many.
10 NBA Stars Still Waiting for Hall of Fame Recognition