Marc Gasol, the defensive stalwart who performed a pivotal function in securing the Toronto Raptors’ first-ever NBA championship, has been named an eligible candidate for induction into the Basketball Corridor of Fame’s Class of 2025.
Gasol joins a listing of stars nominated for the primary time, together with NBA greats Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard, in addition to WNBA icons Sue Fowl, Maya Moore, Sylvia Fowles and Chamique Holdsclaw. Esteemed coaches like Doc Rivers, Billy Donovan and Mark Few are additionally on the listing, alongside builder Micky Arison.
Though Gasol’s time with the Raptors was temporary, his impression was simple. Acquired on the commerce deadline in 2019, the 7-foot Spaniard was a defensive anchor and savvy playmaker. In 70 common season video games with Toronto, Gasol averaged 8.1 factors, 6.4 rebounds and three.5 assists per recreation. However his affect prolonged past the partition. Gasol’s defensive prowess, management and excessive basketball IQ have been very important within the Raptors’ playoff march to the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Past his contributions in Toronto, Gasol’s Corridor of Fame case is bolstered by an illustrious 11-season stint with the Memphis Grizzlies. At Memphis, he received the 2013 Defensive Participant of the 12 months award and was chosen as an NBA All-Star thrice. Gasol’s profession is a testomony to his versatility as a scorer, defender and playmaker.
On the worldwide stage, Gasol has been a cornerstone of the Spanish nationwide basketball crew since 2006. His accolades embody two FIBA World Cup titles, the place he was instrumental in securing victories in opposition to formidable opponents. Notably, Gasol grew to become the second participant in historical past to win an NBA championship and a World Cup in the identical 12 months, and the primary non-American to attain this feat. Moreover, he received two Olympic silver medals and performed a key function in Spain’s success in EuroBasket tournaments, profitable gold medals in 2009 and 2011, a silver in 2007 and medals bronze in 2013 and 2017.
The finalists for the 2025 Corridor of Fame class will probably be introduced on February 14 throughout NBA All-Star Weekend, and the official class will probably be revealed on April 5 throughout the NCAA Ultimate 4.
