Wednesday night’s 2026 ESPY Awards ceremony brought together the sports world’s biggest names at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York, with “Saturday Night Live” cast member Marcello Hernandez serving as host.
The evening’s first major honor went to New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, who claimed the “Best Championship Performance” award after steering the Knicks to their first NBA title since 1973. During the Finals, Brunson put up an average of 32.6 points, 4.6 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.0 steals per game.
Taking the stage to accept his award, Brunson began by recognizing his family, then turned his gratitude toward his coaching staff and fellow players. “I am forever indebted to them, thank you,” he told the audience.
Figure skater Alyssa Liu captured the “Best Breakthrough Athlete” award after claiming gold at the Winter Olympics. Liu reflected on a difficult road to get there. “I had some really rough times in (the sport), and I took two years off, and so it really feels like I did break through in my own way, and for my sport,” she said.
Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry received the prestigious “Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian” award in recognition of his charity, “Eat, Learn, Play,” which has worked to provide meals and playgrounds for children in the Oakland area.
Curry spoke about the weight of the honor. “When you hear Ali’s name, you think about greatness,” he said. “This award being connected to his legacy is incredibly humbling.”
After acknowledging the volunteers, teachers, and others who make the program possible, Curry challenged fellow athletes to step up in their own communities. “Don’t ever forget you have a platform, you have a voice, you have everything you need to make a true impact, and I encourage you to find your Oakland,” he said.
The “Best College Athletes” awards went to Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza and UCLA basketball player Lauren Betts. Betts used her acceptance speech to highlight the importance of mental health for athletes.
Mendoza led the Hoosiers to their first-ever national championship before being selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders in the NFL Draft. “Football is the ultimate team sport,” Mendoza said. “God bless, go Raiders, thank you, guys.”
