The Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame announced its Class of 2026, a distinguished group that reflects the region’s deep and diverse athletic legacy. Headlined by longtime San Francisco Giants shortstop Brandon Crawford, the class also includes rugby coaching legend Jack Clark, Olympic swimming icon Missy Franklin, track and field standout Eddie Hart, and four-time Super Bowl champion Jesse Sapolu.

The induction ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero in San Francisco. The Enshrinement Dinner, presented in part by KNBR 680 AM, will support Special Olympics Northern California, continuing the Hall of Fame’s long-standing mission of honoring excellence while giving back to the community.

Crawford’s induction marks a milestone moment for Giants fans and Bay Area baseball alike. A Bay Area native, Crawford spent the entirety of his Major League career with San Francisco and established himself as one of the most decorated shortstops in franchise history.

He was a key contributor to two World Series championships in 2012 and 2014, earning a reputation as both an elite defender and a clutch postseason performer.

Over his career, Crawford was named a three-time MLB All-Star, won four Gold Glove Awards, captured a Silver Slugger, and received multiple honors recognizing his defensive excellence, including the Willie Mac Award.

He also made history as the first shortstop to hit a grand slam in a postseason game and remains the Giants’ all-time leader in games played at shortstop. His impact extended beyond the field, serving as a cornerstone figure during one of the most successful eras in franchise history.

The 2026 class reflects excellence across multiple sports. Jack Clark’s decades-long influence on collegiate and international rugby has helped shape generations of athletes, while Missy Franklin’s Olympic and collegiate achievements stand among the greatest in swimming history.

Eddie Hart’s accomplishments on the track and Jesse Sapolu’s championship pedigree with the San Francisco 49ers further underscore the class’s breadth and prestige.

“This is a truly special group,” said BASHOF Board Chair Mario Alioto. “These inductees represent championships, historic achievements, and lasting contributions to sports in the Bay Area and beyond.”

Founded in 1979, the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame has enshrined more than 200 individuals and donated over $4 million to youth sports initiatives. With Crawford’s induction, the Hall adds another beloved Bay Area icon whose legacy will resonate for generations.

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