Detroit, Michigan — April 19, 2026 — A bold vision is emerging in Detroit — one that could transform the city into a global hub for basketball culture, history, and year-round events.
The American Basketball Hall of Fame (ABHOF) is entering its 7th year of induction, and its founder, LaMont Robinson, is making a direct call to city leadership: Bring a permanent Hall of Fame home to Detroit now after 7 years.
A former Harlem Clowns basketball star and global ambassador of the game, Robinson spent nearly three decades traveling to 75 countries, helping grow basketball worldwide. After earning five consecutive nominations to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, and inducted into the American Basketball Hall of Fame inaugural class. Robinson created a new platform in 2019 to recognize the many contributors often overlooked players, and coaches.
MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT: 2027 NCAA WEEKEND PLANS
In a major step toward national relevance, the American Basketball Hall of Fame is planning its 2027 Induction Ceremony to coincide with NCAA Basketball Championship Weekend, one of the biggest stages in the sport.
The ceremony is scheduled for:
Sunday, April 5, 2027
Positioning the event alongside NCAA Championship festivities places the ABHOF at the center of the basketball world — attracting fans, media, and industry leaders from across the country.
“This is about putting Detroit in the national spotlight during the biggest weekend in college basketball,” Robinson said. “We’re aligning ourselves with the energy, the excitement, and the global attention that comes with championship basketball.”
“THIS IS BIGGER THAN BASKETBALL”
“Not everyone gets into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame — but their impact on the game is still real,” Robinson said. “This is about giving those individuals their moment — and giving Detroit something the world will come to see.”
Since its founding, the ABHOF has inducted over 125 honorees, including legends like Larry Bird and Isiah Thomas, along with playground basketball legends, women’s stars, and championship coaches at all levels.
A GAME-CHANGING PROPOSAL
Robinson is urging Mayor Mary Sheffield and city officials to support the redevelopment of one of Detroit’s vacant properties into a state-of-the-art Basketball Hall of Fame and community center.
The vision includes:
- Interactive basketball exhibits and immersive digital experiences
- Youth leagues, camps, and mentorship programs
- National tournaments and showcase events
- A destination attraction tied to major basketball weekends
THE IMPACT: JOBS, TOURISM, AND NATIONAL EXPOSURE
With the addition of the 2027 NCAA Championship Weekend activation, the project could:
- Generate major tourism during one of basketball’s biggest weekends
- Create jobs and long-term economic growth
- Transform vacant space into a nationally recognized destination
- Position Detroit as a year-round basketball capital
THE MOMENT IS NOW
“This isn’t just about honoring the past — it’s about building the future,” Robinson said. “Detroit changed the world through music. Now it has a chance to lead the world in basketball culture.”
