The NGBA is thrilled to announce the unanimous selection of Brian Davis, Kevin St. Gelais, and Michael Coleman for induction into the NGBA Hall of Fame Class of 2024. These three outstanding individuals have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ basketball community, both on and off the court, and will be honored for their lasting impact on the sport.
Brian Davis has been a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ basketball for nearly two decades. As one of the most successful players in the history of the Los Angeles Lambda Basketball League, Brian’s skills as a quick point guard with a deadly mid-range jumper led his first travel team, the LBL Ballers, to victory in every NGBA tournament they entered, including a Gay Games Gold Medal in Chicago in 2006. Brian’s dedication extends beyond the court, serving as a Board Member from 2010 to 2019, where he championed the organization’s mission to create a safe sporting environment for the LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles County.
Kevin St. Gelais is celebrated for his unwavering dedication to the growth and visibility of LGBTQ+ basketball. Over 20 seasons in the Boston Gay Basketball League, Kevin served as Commissioner for eight years and Secretary for two. He has coached teams for 14 years, leading seven championship teams as both a player and coach. Among his many contributions, Kevin helped establish the Women’s BGBL in 2008 and introduced game statistics across the BGBL, significantly enhancing the league’s organization and competitiveness.
Michael Coleman is recognized for his tireless efforts as a player, organizer, and advocate within the LGBTQ+ basketball community. In 2008, Michael played a pivotal role in co-founding Jet City Hoops in Seattle, initially taking on the financial risk of renting a gym before any players had signed up. His leap of faith paid off, as the league quickly grew to include both Recreational and Competitive divisions, becoming the largest LGBTQ+ basketball league on the West Coast and one of the largest in the nation. Under his leadership, Jet City Hoops won two medals at the Gay Games in Cologne and regularly sent teams to compete in NGBA tournaments across the country.
The NGBA Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place on October 11, 2024, at The Kansas City Club on the opening night of the 33rd National Basketball Championships. This event will celebrate the remarkable achievements of Brian Davis, Kevin St. Gelais, and Michael Coleman, recognizing their enduring legacy within the LGBTQ+ basketball community.
“We are honored to induct Brian, Kevin, and Michael into the NGBA Hall of Fame,” said Mark Chambers, Founder of the NGBA. “Their contributions have not only shaped the sport but have also helped build a more inclusive and supportive community for LGBTQ+ athletes. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and the positive impact they have made.”
Stay tuned for more information about the Class of 2024 Hall of Fame induction ceremony.
About the NGBA**
The National Gay Basketball Association (NGBA) is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and equality in basketball by providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ athletes to participate in the sport they love. Through various leagues, tournaments, and events, the NGBA fosters a supportive and welcoming community where players can compete, connect, and thrive.
