TOPEKA, Kan. WIBW – The Kansas Sports Hall of Fame celebrated its 2024 Class with the induction of 12 new members on Sunday night at the Maner Conference Center. The event honored not only the individual achievements of the inductees but also the rich history of sports in Kansas.
Former Emporia State and KU head baseball coach Dave Bingham expressed his astonishment at being selected among such esteemed company. i
t’s unbelievable really that you could be selected. What you’ve accomplished over a career stacks up with these amazing athletes and coaches, he said.
Mark Turgeon, a KU men’s basketball alum, made a cross-country trip to attend the ceremony, emphasizing his deep connection to Kansas. No place treats me better than the state of Kansas.
I wouldn’t miss it. This means a lot to me. It’s funny; your whole life you’re about team sports, and then this comes along—it’s pretty cool, he remarked.
NFL Hall of Famer and Kansas City Chiefs legend Will Shields also attended the event, proud to represent his home state. “It’s always an honor to say that you’ve had a career where someone else is recognizing you as worthy of their Hall of Fame, Shields told 13 Sports.
He shared his excitement for the current era of Chiefs football, noting, Any time you’re part of an organization that becomes winners and champions, it makes life a little different, but it also makes it cool.
Basketball great and Hummer Sports Park Director Annette Wiles expressed gratitude for representing women’s sports in this year’s class. There’s always a search for mentors, role models, and leadership.
This is an opportunity to carry that flag, she stated.