Basketball Hall induction was a night for the unheralded

SPRINGFIELD — This understated class didn’t disappoint. There are Naismith Hall of Fame classes that are considered star studded, others where the inductees are finally getting their just respect.

This 2019 class was the latter. It may have lacked the big-name recognition of those past classes, but the night at Symphony Hall was indeed special.

Former WNBA star Teresa Weatherspoon offered an emotional and moving speech. Paul Westphal revealed that he wished he would have thanked the late John Havlicek, who passed away earlier this year, for being a great Celtics rookie mentor 40-plus years ago.

Bill Fitch, in a recorded video, thanked Larry Bird and then told stories about his NBA life. Jack Sikma, with a large contingent from Seattle present in support, lobbied for the return of the NBA to the Emerald City.

Sidney Moncrief jokingly asked former Lakers executive and Hall of Famer Jerry West why he drafted Magic Johnson No. 1 overall over him 40 years ago.

It was a touching night in Springfield, where the youngest inductee was 51-year-old Vlade Divac. It was not a night for the youngsters, as there were no recently retired players in this class.

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