“This is the greatest news ever,” exclaimed Mark Few upon learning of his selection for the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. The announcement, which came as a culmination of a storied career, is a testament to Few’s unparalleled impact on college basketball and the legacy he has built at Gonzaga University.
Mark Few, who took the helm of Gonzaga’s basketball program in 1999, transformed a relatively obscure program into a national powerhouse. Under his leadership, Gonzaga has made an astonishing 27 consecutive NCAA Tournaments, a feat that underscores Few’s consistency and excellence as a coach. His all-time coaching record stands at an impressive 773-156, giving him a winning percentage of .832, the highest among active coaches.
Few’s journey to this prestigious honor has been marked by numerous accolades, including being named the West Coast Conference (WCC) Coach of the Year 14 times. His ability to develop talent is evident in the fact that he has coached 23 All-Americans and has been instrumental in creating a pipeline of players who have successfully transitioned to the NBA. Few’s teams have not only reached the NCAA Tournament consistently but have also made it to the national championship game twice, showcasing their competitiveness on the biggest stage.
Reflecting on his induction, Few remarked, “It’s just such a thrill to be elected to the Hall of Fame, something I never would have imagined happening in my life.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the Gonzaga community, where Few is seen not just as a coach but as a pivotal figure in the university’s athletic history. His success has elevated Gonzaga’s profile in the world of college basketball, turning it into a respected program that consistently competes at the highest levels.
Few’s enshrinement ceremony is scheduled for August 14-15, 2026, in Indianapolis, a fitting location for such a significant occasion in the basketball world. The event will not only celebrate Few’s achievements but also serve as a reflection of the Gonzaga story—a narrative of growth, perseverance, and excellence in a sport that often overlooks smaller programs.
As the basketball community prepares to honor Few, his legacy continues to inspire both current and future generations of players and coaches. “I think this is a great validation of the whole Gonzaga story,” Few stated, encapsulating the essence of his journey and the collective effort of everyone involved in the program’s rise.
In a sport where success is often measured by championships, Few’s impact transcends wins and losses. His philosophy of building strong relationships with players and fostering a culture of hard work and dedication has left an indelible mark on Gonzaga basketball. As he prepares for this next chapter, the anticipation surrounding his induction reflects the respect and admiration he has garnered throughout his career.
With the spotlight now shining on Few, the basketball world eagerly awaits the upcoming ceremony, where stories of his remarkable career will be shared, and his contributions to the sport will be celebrated. “Don’t mess with happy,” Few quipped, a reminder of the joy and fulfillment he has found in his coaching journey, which is now immortalized in the annals of basketball history.
