Sounds weird that a player who's good enough to be a HOF isn't a superstar, but I think it happens alot. Maybe the better question is what's the definition of superstar. Question doesn't have to be basketball only.
Well, Scottie Pippen is a HOFer, and I don't think many called him a Superstar. And the Russell-era Celtics got something like 8 HOFers voted in...that's a wee bit too many for one dynasty. But Superstar definition aside,,,Yes, I'd say there is such thing as HOF defensive players/rebounders. Few though. Deke and Rodman and I assume the question is about exclusively NBA careers, and not international and FIBA events.
Good point about his passing, I'd forgotten. I don't think Pippen was a superstar either. And yes, championships definitely elevate a player's HOF chances although the player might not be a superstar. Also, as far as definition, some people equate "superstar" to how famous a player is, not necessarily talent level.
Lopsided poll... Can a player be a HOF without being a star? Has every HOF player been an All-Star? Ben Wallace - check Mutombo - check McHale - check Jesus Shuttleworth - check Pippen - check Rodman - check Ginobili - check International guys might be the only exceptions
Basketball HOF is not strictly NBA play, so technically yes. But specific to NBA play, Rodman comes to mind.
Superstar is a term that means different things to different people. Plenty of players have made the HOF without being what I would call a superstar (top 5 player, best player on a championship level team) Can a player make it without being an all-star level player, no.
The Naismith basketball hall of fame includes guys who contribute to the game of basketball in some significant fashion. Basketball extends beyond just the realm of the NBA. Although the OP had mentioned 'player', a once NBA player or even college player can still make it to the HOF by status of coaching legend. And of course you could argue neither Alonzo Mourning nor Chris Mullin were superstars in their prime.
Indeed. His style and antics made Rodman extra famous. True, that's why I kept stressing "player". Any players make it from mostly their college careers? Bill Walton comes to mind as injury hampered his pro career.
I'm pretty sure every HOF inducts coaches and even owners. They all designate what category the person was inducted -- one of which is player.
Makes me think of Yaomania. Yao was a superstar, though only briefly. But, I think he should be in the Hall of Fame more for being the first legit Chinese player in the west and it being a huge deal. Moreso than for what he produced on the court.
For what it's worth, Marques Haynes, made it to the HOF without having much of an NBA career at all. One of the best dribblers of his time, and brought the spotlight on the Harlem Globetrotters. Also played on the Globetrotter team that ended up beating Mikan-led Lakers in 1949.
