The biggest names in sports were recognized Wednesday night as the 2026 ESPY Awards celebrated outstanding performances, unforgettable moments and inspirational achievements from the past year.
Jalen Brunson emerged as the evening’s top winner after helping guide the New York Knicks to a long-awaited NBA championship. Brunson earned Best Athlete in Men’s Sports and Best Championship Performance, adding more accolades to a remarkable season that ended with the Knicks capturing their first league title in more than five decades. The franchise also claimed the Best Team award, capping a memorable year for New York basketball.
On the women’s side, Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson collected Best Athlete in Women’s Sports for the second time in her career. Wilson’s dominant play and continued success have solidified her place among the elite athletes in professional sports.
Olympic figure skating champion Alysa Liu was recognized as Best Breakthrough Athlete after an impressive rise to the top of her sport, while baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani earned Best Single-Game Performance. Cleveland Browns defensive standout Myles Garrett received Best Record-Breaking Performance, and Knicks forward OG Anunoby was honored for Best Play.
The ceremony also highlighted individuals whose impact extends well beyond athletic competition. Former Major League pitcher Jim Abbott received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance in recognition of his inspirational journey, while former NBA player Jason Collins was honored with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award. Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry accepted the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award for his charitable work, and Coast Guard rescue swimmer Scott Ruskan was presented with the Pat Tillman Award for Service after helping save lives during devastating flood rescue operations.
The annual ESPY Awards once again blended athletic excellence with stories of courage, perseverance and community service, celebrating not only championship moments but also the people whose influence reaches far beyond the playing field.
