TNT NBA sideline reporter Craig Sager will receive the Jimmy V Perseverance award at this year’s ESPYS, ESPN announced on Tuesday.
Sager was diagnosed with acute leukemia in 2014. He has been battling the disease ever since. Earlier this year in an interview with HBO, Sager revealed that his cancer was no longer in remission. He was out for 11 months while undergoing treatment and getting a bone marrow transplant from his son, according to ESPN. He returned to TNT’s NBA coverage in March 2015. He is scheduled for eight days of chemotherapy in Houston starting in June.
“When I was diagnosed with cancer, like so many other people, my life changed forever,” Sager said in a statement, "Over the last two years, I've done everything in my power to live my life as normally as possible. But at times, you need support and I'm so thankful to everyone who has been there for me. There is no greater honor than receiving this award and I am very humbled."
Maura Mandt, the executive producer of the ESPYS said that Sager serves as an inspiration to many as he continues to battle leukemia. The Jimmy V award is given to someone in sports who overcomes obstacles through perseverance and determination. It is named after Jim Valvano, an NCAA-winning coach who gave an acceptance speech at the 1993 ESPYS that included the words "Don't Give Up ... Don't Ever Give Up!" Valvano died of cancer later that year. Sager and Valvano worked together at the 1991 Pan American Games in Cuba.
Other recipients of the Jimmy V award include Leah Still, Kay Yow, George Karl, Eric LeGrande, and Stuart Scott. The ESPYS are on July 13 and will air on ABC.