John Calipari leads new Memphis Sports Hall of Fame class

Nine new inductees were honored at the Memphis Sports Hall of Fame during an event on September 16, 2026, at the Renasant Convention Center. The Tigers dominated the 2026 class with seven new members, including former basketball coach John Calipari, legendary player Larry Kenon, Super Bowl-winning kicker Stephen Gostkowski, Pro Football Hall of Famer Tim Harris, tennis standout Phil Chamberlain, softball legend Chelsea Bramlett, former Memphis Redbirds coach Stubby Clapp, Hamilton football coach Roosevelt Hancock, and Hamilton football coach Bobby Alston.

Calipari, the winningest coach in Memphis basketball history, led the Tigers to six NCAA Tournament appearances and four Sweet Sixteen finishes between 2000 and 2009, including a national championship game appearance in 2008. Calipari shared his gratitude for the event, stating that it took the collective effort of the city to achieve their success, and he expressed his appreciation for those who contributed to building the Memphis program.