The 2026 ESPY Awards are set to take place tonight in New York City, honoring outstanding athletes and sports achievements from the past year. Golden State Warriors player Stephen Curry received the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award ahead of the ceremony, expressing pride in the work done by his “Eat Learn Play” foundation. The awards show will air live at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and stream on ESPN+, with replays available on Hulu and Disney+. Comedian Marcello Hernández will host the event for the first time. Nominees include top athletes such as Jalen Brunson, Lionel Messi, Shohei Ohtani, and A’ja Wilson, with Brunson recognized for his exceptional performance leading the New York Knicks to their first championship in over five decades.
Why It Matters
The ESPY Awards highlight the achievements of athletes and teams across various sports, contributing to the recognition of sports excellence in American culture. This year’s nominees reflect a diverse array of talent, showcasing emerging athletes alongside established stars like Ohtani, who has won multiple ESPYs in the past. The event also emphasizes the impact of sports on community engagement, as seen through Curry’s humanitarian efforts. The return of the ESPYs to New York City marks a significant moment, as the event has historically been held in Los Angeles, enhancing the visibility of sports achievements in a different cultural setting.
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