Former Laker Gary Payton, who made the basketball Hall of Fame this week, attended the game.

NPR: Lakers Beat Hornets 104-96 To Stay In Hunt

His storied amateur career, in the 1970s, earned him a place in Indiana's Basketball Hall of Fame.

WSJ: Sometimes Home Isn't Sweet

"I suppose they could, " added Rick Leddy of the body that governs the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame.

CNN: July 28, 2012 -- Updated 1425 GMT (2225 HKT)

And Nancy Lieberman, a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee who played parts of two seasons in a men's professional league, likewise cheered the move.

CNN: Augusta National Golf Club admits first female members

The 1995 Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee also has coached Indiana, Charlotte and New York in the WNBA, compiling a 167-150 record in 10 seasons.

WSJ: AP Source: Bozzella to coach Seton Hall women

John Lucaswas the No. 1 pick of the 1976 NBA draft, had a 14-year pro career and coached in the NBA. North Carolina State's Mr. Thompson is in the Basketball Hall of Fame.

WSJ: The 40-Year Secret Behind Basketball's 'Hershberger' Award

Drawing upon his experience playing for Coach K at Duke, and with a Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame coach for a father, Hurley decided he was ready to make a name for himself at the coaching level.

WSJ: Buffalo gets name power, hires Hurley as coach

But Rodman is also a Hall of Fame basketball player and one of the best defenders and rebounders to ever play the game.

NPR: Dennis Rodman Worms His Way Into North Korea