As the show started, host Joel McHale wasted no time making fun of Russell Wilson for the infamous interception he threw during the Super Bowl. “Don’t throw it, ok? Just hand it to me, seriously…it is the obvious choice,” Joel yelled at Russell, referring to the mic. “Too soon, Joel,” Russell responded.
The 2015 ESPYs showcased a mix of the best moments and the most talented people in sports over the past year. The Microsoft Theater in L.A. was filled with some of the world’s most renowned athletes, both past and present. Highlighted by the achievements of legends like Peyton Manning, LeBron James, and Derek Jeter, the memories of inspirations Stuart Scott and Lauren Hill, and the courageous acts of the Still family and Caitlyn Jenner, it was a night to remember.
Devon Still and his daughter Leah took home the Jimmy V. Perseverance Award. You could feel the pain of his struggle and the love he has for his daughter in the emotional and heartbreaking speech that Devon gave. He talked about the long journey the two have been on since Leah was diagnosed last year and their fight to beat cancer once and for all. Although Leah couldn’t make it to the awards show, she had a message for the audience, thanking them for their support while she beats up cancer.
Later in the night, Ben Affleck, who is ironically a die-hard Boston Red Sox fan, presented Yankees legend Derek Jeter with the Icon Award. Even as a fan of the Yankees’ biggest rivals, Affleck could still appreciate the greatness of Jeter. “He broke my heart 100 times if not more,” he said. “And he broke it again when he retired because he was absolutely one of the very best to play the game of baseball. So you, Derek Jeter, I tip my hat and I thank you for every moment of this incredible career.” Following a montage of Jeter’s greatest career moments, the baseball great walked on stage to receive the award that recognizes him as one of the biggest icons in sports history.
Slaying in an all-white wrap dress with her hair laid, Caitlyn Jenner made her first public appearance since transitioning into a woman. She accepted the Arthur Ashe Courage Award and shared her life story, talking about everything that led her to become who she is today. She paid homage to other transgenders who had been killed or who had committed suicide and expressed her desire to be a voice for the transgender community.
The Stills, Derek Jeter, and Caitlyn Jenner were just a few of the individuals who received an ESPY award. Here is a list of all the other winners from the night:
Best Record-Breaking Performance: Peyton Manning
Best Breakthrough Athlete: Mo’ne Davis
Best Upset: Ole Miss Football upset over Alabama
Pat Tillman Award for Service: Danielle Green
Best Championship Performance: LeBron James
Best Moment: Lauren Hill
Best Female Athlete: Ronda Rousey
Best Comeback Athlete: Rob Gronkowski
Best Play: Odell Beckham Jr’s one handed catch
Best Fighter: Ronda Rousey
Best NFL Player: Aaron Rodgers
Best NBA Player: Stephen Curry
Best Male College Athlete: Marcus Mariota
Best International Athlete: Lionel Messi
Best Game: Super Bowl XLIX – Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots
Best Male Athlete: Stephen Curry
Best Team: US Women’s World Cup Soccer Team
For those of you who tuned in, what were your thoughts on the ESPYs?
