NASHVILLE, TN – March 17, 2026 – Former Memphis Grizzlies All-Star center Marc Gasol has been named to the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame honors individuals whose achievements have made a lasting impact on the history of sports in the state of Tennessee.
“Marc Gasol helped define one of the most successful eras in Memphis basketball,” said Brad Willis, Executive Director of the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. “His leadership, defensive excellence, and unique skill set made him one of the most respected centers in the NBA. His impact on the Memphis Grizzlies and the growth of professional basketball in Tennessee is undeniable, and we are proud to welcome him into the Class of 2026.”
Gasol spent most of his NBA career with the Memphis Grizzlies, where he became one of the most accomplished players in franchise history. A key figure in Memphis’ renowned “Grit and Grind” era, Gasol helped lead the Grizzlies to multiple playoff appearances and the 2013 Western Conference Finals, the deepest postseason run in franchise history.
During his tenure in Memphis, Gasol earned numerous individual honors, including NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2013, three NBA All-Star selections, and multiple All-NBA Team recognitions. Known for his exceptional passing ability, defensive intelligence, and leadership, Gasol was widely regarded as one of the most complete centers of his generation.
After more than a decade with the Grizzlies, Gasol joined the Toronto Raptors, where he played a key role in the franchise’s 2019 NBA Championship. He later concluded his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, leaving behind a legacy that included 12,514 career points, 6,604 rebounds, and 2,996 assists.
Beyond the NBA, Gasol also enjoyed a distinguished international career with the Spanish national team, winning multiple Olympic and FIBA World Cup medals and establishing himself as one of the most accomplished international players of his era.
Gasol was born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, but he and his family moved to Germantown in 2001 when his older brother Pau played for the Memphis Grizzlies. Gasol attended Lausanne Collegiate School in Memphis and was named Tennessee’s Division 2 Mr. Basketball in 2003.
“Marc Gasol’s influence in Memphis extended far beyond the court,” Willis added. “He embraced the city, represented the franchise with class, and helped elevate the Memphis Grizzlies into one of the most respected teams in the league. His induction celebrates both his outstanding career and his lasting connection to Tennessee.”
Gasol joins Monica Abbott, Jennifer Azzi, Matt Cain, Jerry Caldwell, Mike Clary, the late Reggie Cobb, AntoneDavis, Kermit Davis, Bubba Luckett, Charles McRae, Ron Mercer, David Price, and Pete Weber as announced members of the 2026 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Class. The full class will be announced over the coming weeks.
The 2026 Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by the Tennessee Titans, will be held Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Omni Nashville Downtown. Ticket and sponsorships are available now at TSHF2026.givesmart.com.
About the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame
Established in 1966, the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, sponsored by the Tennessee Lottery, honors athletes, teams, coaches, sports writers, and sports administrators who have made a meaningful impact on the history of Tennessee sports. The Hall serves as a platform to connect athletes, coaches, fans, and supporters while celebrating achievements shaped through sports. The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame also seeks to educate youth on the importance of healthy habits and the positive role sports play in developing character and leadership. For more information, visit www.tshf.net.
About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation
The Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation operates entirely from the revenue generated through the sale of its products. Since January 20, 2004, the Lottery has raised more than $8.1 billion to fund designated education programs, including college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives, and after-school programs. In addition to educational beneficiaries, players have won billions in prizes, and Lottery retailers have earned billions in commissions. For more information, visit tnlottery.com and follow the Tennessee Education Lottery on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram.
