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A unique exhibit also describes various plays that became famous, complete with chalkboard diagrams on how they were run. John Wooden's zone press, Tex Winter's triple-post offense and Bob Knight's motion offense are among many examples. Even the referees have a place on the second level, which walks its fans through history in a systematic manner. The third level, which oversees "Center Court," is the "Honors Ring." This repository of plaques with the Hall of Fame's 268 inductees is a Mecca where trivia buff can spend hours. Who made the first 3-point shot in college basketball history? (Ronnie Carr, Western Carolina University, 1980). When was the dunk banned by the NCAA? (1967). When was it reinstated? (1976). And you may not have known that the Philadelphia Hebrews won seven titles in the old American Basketball League, the last coming in 1945, just before the ABL gave way to the fledgling NBA. The inductees are displayed in order of the years enshrined, complemented by a visual time line. This line not only describes interesting events and rules changes in basketball by year, but also various moments of American and world history in those years, too. Some are famous and some are anecdotal, but all create a connective theme to the sport's history, which is what Hall officials had in mind.  Phil Jackson, the first coach in NBA history to lead a team to three consecutive championships three different times. So, when is the best time to visit, or is there a best time? Summer is generally the most popular, since it coincides with vacation time, but families or fans with flexible schedules might want to consider other times of the year, too. There is, of course, Enshrinement Weekend. Traditionally, a late-spring celebration, the ceremonies were moved to the second weekend of September a few years ago, when it became apparent the spring schedule was creating conflicts for NBA luminaries tied up with the playoffs, which were extending later. Enshrinement Weekend with its bustle and drama is not the only suitable time to see the Hall of Fame, however. A favored time might be in early to mid-October, when the Western Massachusetts foliage season is at its peak. It's a time of cooler but pleasant temperatures, without the harsh weather that follows during winter months. Leaf-peeping is especially popular along the Mohawk Trail in Franklin County, located less than 40 miles north of Springfield and reached directly from Interstate 91. The Hall of Fame also periodically hosts visits and programs with enshrined members and other stars of the sport, throughout the course of the year. To enjoy the Hall of Fame properly, visitors should delegate a fair amount of time. A three-hour visit seems reasonable minimum. Planning for less time will create a "rush-through'' mentality that might detract from the experience. An even longer visit would also be suitable, especially as it allows time to savor the movies and videos. The Hall of Fame is part of a complex that, unlike its two predecessors, also houses numerous dining and shopping facilities. Max's Tavern and Pazzo Ristorante are located on the Hall of Fame site. So are McDonald's and the Cold Stone Creamery, and the Uno Chicago Grill is a short walk away. Shopping is available at the Museum Store and an Adidas store (opening in September), within the Hall of Fame itself. The Hilton Garden Suites are conveniently located next to the Hall of Fame, and downtown Springfield's other major hotels - the Marriott, Sheraton and Holiday Inn - are also nearby. Hall of Fame prices range from $16.99 for adults, $13.99 for seniors 65 and over, and $11.99 for children 5 to 15. Children under 5 are admitted free, and parking is free and plentiful. Group discounts for 15 or more can be obtained by calling 413-221-5512 or 413-231-5513. The Hall's main number is 413-781-6500.
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