Champions of Legacy: The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame Welcomes Its 2025 Class
In the grand theater of athletic excellence where courage meets glory and determination forges immortality, a new chapter unfolds. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee has unveiled its Hall of Fame Class of 2025—an assemblage of extraordinary individuals whose achievements have transcended mere competition to become woven into the very fabric of American sporting heritage.
These fourteen inductees—eight individual athletes, two legendary teams, two sporting pioneers from bygone eras, an inspirational coach, and visionary contributors—represent more than medals and records. They embody the indomitable human spirit that defines Olympic and Paralympic competition at its finest.
“We’re proud to welcome the Class of 2025 into the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame and to honor the extraordinary accomplishments they’ve made as representatives of Team USA,” declared USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland, acknowledging not just their competitive triumphs but the profound impact these individuals have made as ambassadors of American excellence on the world stage.
Since its establishment in 1979, the Hall of Fame has served as the ultimate recognition for those who have elevated American sports to unprecedented heights. This year’s selection, culled from an exceptional field of finalists including 15 Olympians, nine Paralympians, multiple teams, coaches and contributors, represents the pinnacle of athletic achievement and lasting influence.
🏅 Headliners of the Class
- Allyson Felix: A seven-time Olympic gold medalist in track and field, Felix is celebrated for her exceptional sprinting career and advocacy for women in sports.
- Serena Williams: With four Olympic gold medals in tennis, Williams is recognized for her dominance on the court and her influence in elevating the sport globally.
- Mike Krzyzewski: Known as “Coach K,” he led the U.S. men’s basketball team to two Olympic gold medals, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history.
🏅 Olympians & Paralympians: Icons of Excellence
This year’s inductees also include some of the most decorated athletes and innovators in Olympic history:
- Gabby Douglas: The first African American woman to win the Olympic all-around gymnastics title, Douglas inspired a generation with her groundbreaking achievements.
- Bode Miller: An Olympic gold medalist in alpine skiing, Miller is one of the most decorated American skiers, known for his fearless and unconventional style.
- Kerri Walsh Jennings: A three-time Olympic gold medalist in beach volleyball, Walsh Jennings is celebrated for her dominance and longevity in the sport.
- Phil Knight: Co-founder of Nike, Knight’s contributions have significantly impacted sports marketing and athlete sponsorships.
- Steve Cash: A Paralympic sled hockey player, Cash’s career includes multiple gold medals and recognition as one of the sport’s greatest goaltenders.
- Anita DeFrantz: An Olympic rower and long-time International Olympic Committee member, DeFrantz has been a trailblazer for women in sports governance.
- Susan Hagel: A multi-sport Paralympian, Hagel’s versatility and success across different disciplines highlight her exceptional athleticism.
- Flo Hyman: A legendary volleyball player, Hyman was instrumental in popularizing the sport in the U.S. and advocating for gender equality in athletics.
- Marla Runyan: The first legally blind athlete to compete in the Olympics, Runyan’s achievements in track and field have been inspirational.
- 2010 Olympic Four-Man Bobsled Team: Led by Steve Holcomb, this team ended a 62-year gold medal drought for the U.S. in the event.
- 2004 Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Team: Their gold medal victory marked a significant moment in Paralympic sports history.
🏀 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Class of 2025
The basketball community also celebrated the induction of several legends:
- Carmelo Anthony: A three-time Olympic gold medalist, Anthony is one of the most prolific scorers in U.S. men’s basketball history.
- Sue Bird: A five-time Olympic gold medalist, Bird’s leadership and playmaking have been pivotal for both Team USA and the WNBA.
- Dawn Staley: An Olympic gold medalist as a player and coach, Staley has been influential in the growth of women’s basketball.
- Sylvia Fowles: A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Fowles is known for her dominance in the paint and contributions to Team USA’s success.
- Dwight Howard: An Olympic gold medalist and three-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, Howard’s athleticism and defense have been standout.
- Maya Moore: A two-time Olympic gold medalist, Moore’s excellence on the court and advocacy off it have made her a role model.
- 2008 USA Men’s Olympic Basketball Team: Known as the “Redeem Team,” they restored U.S. dominance in international basketball with a gold medal in Beijing.
- Billy Donovan: Recognized for his coaching achievements, including leading the Florida Gators to back-to-back NCAA championships.
- Micky Arison: As the Miami Heat’s managing partner, Arison has been influential in the team’s success and growth.
- Danny Crawford: A respected NBA referee, Crawford’s career is marked by consistency and professionalism.
⚽ National Soccer Hall of Fame: Celebrating Soccer Excellence
The 2025 National Soccer Hall of Fame class honors individuals who have significantly impacted American soccer:
- Carli Lloyd: With 134 goals in 316 appearances, Lloyd’s illustrious career includes two World Cup titles and two Olympic gold medals.
- Chris Armas: A stalwart midfielder with 66 caps for the U.S. men’s national team and a respected MLS coach.
- Nick Rimando: Holding MLS records for appearances, wins, and shutouts, Rimando’s goalkeeping prowess is unmatched.
- Mary Harvey: A member of the inaugural Women’s World Cup-winning team and an advocate for the growth of women’s soccer.
- Mark Abbott: As MLS’s first employee and former president, Abbott played a crucial role in establishing and growing the league.
Team USA Profile Photo Credit: Flo Hyman and Kerri Walsh Jennings (Volleyball), and Gabby Douglas (Gymnast)
🤸 USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame: Honoring Gymnastic Achievements
The 2025 USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame class includes athletes and contributors who have elevated the sport:
- Morgan Hurd: A 2017 World all-around champion, Hurd’s performances have captivated audiences worldwide.
- Missy Marlowe: Known for her artistic excellence, Marlowe’s contributions have left a lasting impact on gymnastics.
- Rebecca Sereda: A standout in rhythmic gymnastics, Sereda has set new standards in the discipline.
- Barry Weiner: Recognized for his coaching achievements and dedication to athlete development.
- Gary Anderson and Marc Yancey: Honored for their lifetime achievements and service to the gymnastics community.
🏐 USA Volleyball Hall of Fame: Legends of the Court
USA Volleyball’s 2025 Hall of Fame class celebrates athletes who have excelled in both indoor and beach volleyball.
- Kerri Walsh Jennings: With three Olympic golds and one bronze, Walsh
As these remarkable individuals take their rightful place among the immortals, they remind us that true greatness extends beyond podiums and ceremonies—it lives in the hearts they’ve inspired and the barriers they’ve shattered along their extraordinary journeys.