Jalen Brunson’s unforgettable summer just got even sweeter. The New York Knicks point guard added another trophy to his collection on Wednesday night, winning Best Athlete in Men’s Sports at the 2026 ESPY Awards inside the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. Brunson beat out a stacked field that included soccer icon Lionel Messi, MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani, and reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford.
The award caps off a remarkable season for Brunson, who led the Knicks to their first NBA championship in 53 years, defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games. He was also named Finals MVP after averaging 40.5 points per game in Games 4 and 5 of the series. The Knicks swept the ESPYs, also taking home Best Team, with OG Anunoby winning Best Play for his Game 4 tip-in.
Brunson accepted the award with humility, thanking his family, teammates, and the fans. “First and foremost, to be awarded this award in a group like that means the world,” he said. “I’m at a loss for words. It’s been a hell of a run, to say the least”. The night capped off a stunning rise for the 29-year-old, who went from overlooked prospect to Knicks legend and now, the best male athlete in the world.
