The celebrations continue for Jalen Brunson, who won several ESPYS at Wednesday’s ceremony.
Every year, the biggest names in sports and entertainment come together at the ESPYS to recognize the greatest athletic performances, moments and achievements of the past year.
This year, the 2026 ESPYS were hosted by comedian Marcello Hernández in New York City. The ESPYS pay tribute to some of the most influential figures in sports while raising awareness for the V Foundation for Cancer Research.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson was nominated for three categories: Best Athlete – Men’s Sports, Best Championship Performance, and Best NBA Player – taking home all three awards. He joined his teammates in earning a Best Team nomination after beating the San Antonio Spurs 4-1 in the 2026 NBA Finals to end their 53-year championship drought, which they won later in the night.
Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo had been nominated for the Best Single-Game Performance with his 83-point performance in March.
On the women’s side, Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson earned her second win for Best Athlete – Women’s Sports, completing her second “double” after claiming Best WNBA Player as well. Washington Mystics center Lauren Betts was named Best College Athlete – Women’s Sports for her play at UCLA.
From Jalen Brunson to A’ja Wilson, check out the notable winners from the NBA and WNBA:
NBA
- Best Championship Performance: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
- Best Athlete – Men’s Sports: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
- Best NBA Player: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks
- Best Team: New York Knicks
- Best Play: OG Anunoby, New York Knicks
- Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award: Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
- Arthur Ashe Courage Award: Jason Collins
WNBA
- Best WNBA Player: A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas Aces
- Best Athlete – Women’s Sports: A’ja Wilson, Las Vegas Aces
- Best College Athlete – Women’s Sports: Lauren Betts, UCLA Women’s Basketball
