The most prestigious night in sports media is officially approaching as the nominations for the 2026 ESPY Awards have been revealed. This annual event, which stands as a cornerstone of the sporting calendar, celebrates the greatest individual and team achievements across the globe. From the hardwood of the NBA and WNBA to the diamonds of MLB and the pitches of MLS, the 2026 ballot features a star-studded lineup of athletes who have defined the last year in competition.
The 2026 ESPY Awards: A Celebration of Excellence
The 2026 ESPY Awards serve as a unique platform where fan input directly shapes the outcome of the trophies. Unlike many traditional awards that rely solely on media panels or peer voting, the ESPYS invite the public to weigh in on who truly deserves the title of the year’s best. This year’s list of nominees reflects a period of massive growth in several leagues, particularly with the continued rise of women’s basketball and the global expansion of soccer and baseball icons.
Voting is now officially open to the public, allowing fans to support their favorite players across various categories, including Best Athlete, Best Team, and Best Breakthrough Performer. The inclusion of high-profile names like A’ja Wilson, Shohei Ohtani, and Jalen Brunson highlights the high level of competition present in this year’s cycle.
Individual Dominance: Wilson and Ohtani Lead the Way
Among the headliners for the 2026 ESPY Awards is WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson. Wilson has consistently been a focal point of the sports world, leading her team with record-breaking performances and defensive dominance. Her nomination comes as no surprise to those who have followed her trajectory as one of the most influential figures in modern basketball. Her presence on the ballot underscores the massive cultural and competitive impact the WNBA has maintained over the past several seasons.
Joining her in the top-tier categories is Shohei Ohtani. The MLB’s two-way sensation continues to defy historical precedents, contributing at an elite level both on the mound and at the plate. Ohtani’s ability to draw international attention to Major League Baseball has made him a perennial favorite at the ESPYS, and 2026 is no different. As he continues to chase milestones, his nomination serves as a testament to his status as a once-in-a-generation talent.
The NBA Surge: Jalen Brunson’s Breakthrough
The NBA is well-represented this year, with Jalen Brunson earning a significant nod among the nominees. Brunson’s rise to elite status has been one of the most compelling storylines in professional basketball. Known for his leadership and clutch scoring, Brunson has transformed his team into a legitimate contender, earning the respect of fans and analysts alike. His nomination for a 2026 ESPY reflects his transition from a reliable starter to a bonafide superstar capable of carrying a franchise.
The competition in the NBA-specific categories remains fierce, with several other stars vying for the trophy. However, Brunson’s inclusion highlights the value the ESPYS place on players who exceed expectations and deliver high-stakes performances when it matters most.
MLS and the Global Impact of Soccer
While the headlines often focus on the NBA and MLB, Major League Soccer (MLS) continues to see its stars recognized on the national stage. The 2026 ESPY Awards include specific categories dedicated to the best in MLS, reflecting the league's growing footprint in the North American sports landscape. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the focus on domestic soccer talent has never been higher.
Nominees in the MLS category represent the best of the best from the previous season, including top goal-scorers and playmakers who have helped elevate the league's quality of play. For fans of the beautiful game, casting a vote in these categories is a way to ensure that soccer’s rapid growth is reflected in the final award count.
How to Cast Your Vote
Participation in the 2026 ESPY Awards is straightforward and accessible to all fans. To ensure your favorite athlete takes home the hardware, follow these steps:
- Visit the official ESPN ESPYS voting page.
- Navigate through the various categories, including Best Athlete, Men's Sports; Best Athlete, Women's Sports; and sport-specific awards for the NFL, NBA, MLB, and MLS.
- Select your preferred nominee in each category.
- Submit your ballot to have your voice heard.
The window for voting is limited, and the winners will be announced during the live broadcast of the ceremony. As the debate continues over who had the most impactful year, the final decision rests in the hands of the fans. Whether you are supporting A’ja Wilson’s historic run, Shohei Ohtani’s unprecedented versatility, or Jalen Brunson’s leadership, every vote counts toward crowning the champions of the 2026 sporting year.
Sources & Original Reporting
- ESPN APIVote for the 2026 ESPYS winners
