​Six athletes spanning six decades, joined by a championship coach, will comprise the Michigan State Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2026. The inductees are Lindsay Bowen, recognized for her impact in women’s basketball; Dan Currie, famed for his contributions to football; Tico Duckett, who excelled in football and men’s track and field; Walt Drenth, celebrated for his leadership in men’s and women’s cross country and track and field; Sue Latter-Addison, renowned for her accomplishments in women’s cross country and track and field; Kalin Lucas, a standout in men’s basketball; and Leah O’Connor, who left an enduring mark in women’s cross country and track and field. These seven individuals will be welcomed into the Hall of Fame during a ceremony scheduled for September.
The official induction ceremony is set for Friday, September 11, and tickets can be obtained through MSUSpartans.com. In addition to the formal induction, the 2026 class will receive recognition during Michigan State’s football matchup against Eastern Michigan on Saturday, September 12. The event will highlight the breadth of Michigan State’s athletic excellence, spanning multiple decades and a range of sports disciplines, underscoring the university’s long-standing tradition of nurturing athletes who excel at the collegiate level and beyond.
Lindsay Bowen’s accomplishments in women’s basketball helped elevate MSU’s program, contributing to success on the court and in the broader athletics landscape. Dan Currie’s legacy in football is remembered for his standout performance and leadership as part of the Spartans’ gridiron history. Tico Duckett’s dual-sport excellence in football and track and field demonstrated versatility and dedication, underscoring the multi-faceted approach to athletic development at Michigan State. Walt Drenth’s decades of involvement across cross country and track and field, for both men and women, reflect a deep commitment to endurance and competition, as well as a strong coaching and mentoring influence. Sue Latter-Addison’s enduring impact in women’s cross country and track and field highlights the importance of experience, perseverance, and teamwork in long-distance events. Kalin Lucas’s achievements in men’s basketball left an indelible imprint on Spartan hoops, while Leah O’Connor’s success in women’s cross country and track and field showcased the thrilling convergence of speed, strategy, and resilience on the collegiate stage.
The inclusion of these seven inductees demonstrates the hall’s mission to celebrate a diverse group of athletes and coaches who have shaped MSU’s athletic narrative over the years. Their stories reflect a wide array of talents, from dominant performances to leadership, from breakthrough moments to sustained excellence. As the Sept. 11 ceremony approaches, fans and alumni alike can anticipate an honoring of remarkable careers, a reflection on the evolution of Michigan State Athletics, and a renewed appreciation for the individuals who helped build the program’s reputation for greatness.
In terms of broader context, the Michigan State Athletics Hall of Fame serves not only to recognize historical achievement but also to inspire current and future Spartan athletes. By commemorating the feats of these seven inductees, the university reinforces values such as dedication, hard work, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence—principles that extend beyond the playing field and into all areas of life. The 2026 class’ recognition during the weekend’s football events will further amplify these messages, providing a platform for fans to celebrate generations of Spartan greatness and to honor the legacies that continue to inspire the MSU community.