ESPN Announces Nominees for 2025 Sports Humanitarian Awards

ESPN has revealed the nominees and honorees for the 11th annual Sports Humanitarian Awards, recognizing athletes, teams, leagues, and sports industry figures who have made significant positive impacts in society.

The prestigious event is set to take place in Hollywood at the Ray Dolby Ballroom on July 15. It will air as part of ESPN’s studio programming and feature prominently during The 2025 ESPYS broadcast on ABC, live from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on July 16 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

“At ESPN, we believe deeply in the power of sports to unite communities, inspire hope, and spark meaningful change,” said Kevin Martinez, ESPN’s Vice President of Corporate Citizenship.

“The Sports Humanitarian Awards highlight this belief, recognizing individuals and organizations that utilize their platforms not only to compete but also to serve and lead with a clear purpose. We’re proud to celebrate this year’s impressive nominees and honorees.”

Among this year’s notable finalists are CJ McCollum, Alex Ovechkin, and Sloane Stephens, who are contenders for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award.

The Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year finalists include prominent franchises such as the Indianapolis Colts, Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Kings, and New York Yankees.

Michele Kang will be honored as the Sports Philanthropist of the Year, while former Major League Baseball player and executive Billy Bean will receive the Stuart Scott ENSPIRE Award.

Nominees for the Corporate Community Impact Award feature Buffalo Wild Wings, Cheez-It, Fanatics, and Monumental Sports & Entertainment.

Young leaders Maegha Ramanathan, Rishin Tandon, and Ian Waite will each receive the Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award.

Proceeds from the awards ceremony will benefit the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund at the V Foundation for Cancer Research.