The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame exudes an air of mystery, functioning as both a museum and a secretive committee. With its evolving criteria that recognize players, coaches, contributors, and teams from all levels of basketball, fans frequently ponder when their favorite players will receive their accolades.
The upcoming enshrinement in September 2025 will honor members of the 2008 Redeem Team, including Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard. However, the main topic of discussion remains: When will LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry be eligible for induction?
What Is the Process for Induction into the Hall of Fame?
The journey to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame begins with some paperwork. A nomination form must be submitted to the Hall’s President and CEO by October 31, marking the nominee’s official entry onto the ballot.
Next, a screening committee evaluates each nominee, requiring a sufficient number of votes to progress as finalists. Those who pass this stage will undergo a review by the Board of Trustees for integrity verification before reaching the final selection round.
The ultimate decision rests with the 24-member Honors Committee, where a candidate must secure at least 18 votes in favor. Additionally, separate Direct-Elect committees can induct selected individuals each year.
Eligibility Timeline for LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry
As of September 2025, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry are still active, meaning their clocks for eligibility have yet to begin. Under the revised two-season waiting period, the timeline for each star looks like this:
LeBron James (age 40, 23rd season in 2025-26)
If James retires after the 2025-26 season, he would be eligible for the Class of 2029 after sitting out the subsequent two seasons. With an impressive resume that includes becoming the all-time scoring leader, four-time NBA champion, four-time Finals MVP, and being a 21-time All-Star, he is a first-ballot lock when eligible.
Kevin Durant (age 36, 19th season in 2025-26)
Should Durant retire after the 2025-26 season, he would also be eligible in 2029. His career includes two NBA championships, two Finals MVPs, and numerous scoring titles, solidifying his spot among the greats. He is part of the exclusive 30,000-point club and boasts numerous Olympic gold medals.
Stephen Curry (age 37, 17th season in 2025-26)
If Curry decides to retire after the 2025-26 season, he too would become eligible in 2029. As the NBA’s all-time leader in three-pointers, along with multiple championships and numerous accolades, Curry’s influence on the game is profound and will be recognized by the Hall.
What If They Continue Their Careers?
Since eligibility is tied to retirement, any extension of their careers merely shifts the eligibility timeline forward. For instance, if they retire in 2027, they would then be eligible in 2030, and similarly for later dates.
Ultimately, it’s not a matter of whether these three superstars will be inducted, but rather when their countdown period will commence. Each has already established an undeniable case for first-ballot induction. Fans are now left to await their retirement announcements to initiate their path to basketball immortality.
