Lakers: Pau Gasol Talks Hall Of Fame Journey

After his success in the NBA and at an international level, the Lakers legend is deserving of the accolade.

The Hall of Fame Class of 2023 finalists have been released and on that list was Lakers legend, Pau Gasol. A total of twelve finalists were named including other international greats such as Dirk Nowitzki and Tony Parker.

Pau is very deserving of this accolade, from coming into the league hot as the 2002 Rookie of the Year, to earning a label as a two-time NBA champion and six-time All-Star. At an international level, Pau also helped his country win three Olympic medals. The 7-footer was even named the FIBA EuroBasket MVP two times and made his mark in the Euro league as the all-time EuroBasket leading scorer.

As a retired player, Gasol continues to make an impact in the world of basketball. He was even recently presented the Kobe & Gigi Bryant WNBA Advocacy Award for his consistent efforts in supporting women’s basketball at the highest level. 

Pau appeared at a press conference over the weekend to talk about how much the Hall of Fame recognition means to him:

"It's really about the journey," Gasol said. "These type of recognitions, which are an amazing honor, they come along when you do things very, very well for a long time and when you love what you do. I'm just privileged to have played the game for so long, at a high level, with amazing people who taught me so much."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Basketball HOF (@hoophall)

With all the accolades and achievements Pau has earned, the Lakers will also be recognizing all the success he brought to the Purple and Gold by retiring his jersey this year on March 7, 2023.

As for the Hall of Fame award, the inductees are set to be announced during the NCAA Final Four this year in April. A finalist must have at least 18 votes out of the 24-member honors. After an illustrious career Pau cemented, there is no doubt that he will be inducted into the Hall of Fame in his first year on the ballot. 

Are you following us on Twitter, Facebook, or YouTube yet? Join the conversation as we discuss the latest Lakers news and rumors with fans like you!