The 2026 ESPY Awards are set to air live on ABC, hosted by comedian Marcello Hernandez, celebrating the year's biggest moments in sports. This year's nominees reflect a mix of historic achievements and standout performances, with the New York Knicks and their star point guard Jalen Brunson leading the conversation.
New York Knicks: From Drought to Dominance
The Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought by defeating the San Antonio Spurs in a thrilling postseason run. Their comeback victories have made them the heavy favorites for Best Team. A key moment came when OG Anunoby grabbed an offensive rebound and scored with 1.2 seconds left at Madison Square Garden, a play that's a top contender for Best Play. This resurgence has captivated New York and the broader basketball world, marking a cultural shift for a franchise long starved for glory.
For Latino fans, the Knicks' story resonates beyond the court. New York City's deep Puerto Rican and Dominican communities have long embraced the team, and this championship run feels like a shared victory. It's a reminder of how sports can unite diverse neighborhoods, from Washington Heights to the Bronx.
Jalen Brunson and A'ja Wilson: The Individual Favorites
Jalen Brunson is projected to win Best Athlete in Men's Sports, edging out global icons like Lionel Messi and Shohei Ohtani. His tactical efficiency and team-friendly contract adjustments have made him a hero in New York. Brunson's rise from a second-round pick to Finals MVP is a story of grit and skill that resonates with many Latino athletes who've overcome odds.
In women's sports, Las Vegas Aces center A'ja Wilson is favored for Best Athlete in Women's Sports, ahead of winter sports legend Hilary Knight. Wilson's historic season saw her win WNBA MVP, Finals MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year, a rare triple that underscores her dominance. Her impact extends beyond stats, as she's become a role model for young Latinas in sports.
Breakthroughs and Records
Figure skater Alysa Liu is the top pick for Best Breakthrough Athlete after returning to competition and winning two gold medals at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Her story of resilience and excellence mirrors that of many Latino athletes who've balanced cultural expectations with personal ambition.
Myles Garrett is predicted to win Best Record Breaking Performance after recording 23 sacks in the regular season, outpacing cross-country skier Johannes Høsflot Klæbo. Garrett's achievement highlights the NFL's growing global appeal, including in Latin America, where American football is gaining traction.
The ESPYs also feature performances by De La Soul, Slick Rick, and Ghostface Killah, blending sports with hip-hop culture. This year's show will stream on Disney+ and Hulu after the live broadcast, expanding its reach to a global audience.
For Latino sports fans, the ESPYs offer a moment to celebrate athletes who reflect our communities' diversity. Whether it's the Knicks' championship or Wilson's dominance, these stories remind us of the power of sports to inspire. Check out our coverage of the Colombia vs Ghana World Cup clash and the 2026 World Cup bracket analysis for more sports insights.
