The biggest night in sports is officially on the horizon. ESPN has unveiled the full list of 2026 ESPYS nominees, setting the stage for a star-studded celebration of athletic excellence, perseverance, and record-breaking performances. From the hardwood of the WNBA and NBA to the diamond of Major League Baseball, the names on this year’s ballot represent the absolute pinnacle of professional sports over the past calendar year.
Fans now have the unique opportunity to play judge and jury for the most prestigious awards in the industry. With voting officially open, the race is on to see who will take home the iconic silver trophies. This year’s field is particularly competitive, featuring a mix of established legends and rising stars who have redefined their respective games.
Basketball Excellence: Wilson and Brunson Take Center Stage
Among the most prominent names on the list of 2026 ESPYS nominees are WNBA superstar A’ja Wilson and NBA standout Jalen Brunson. Wilson, who has become the face of women’s basketball through her dominant play and leadership, finds herself nominated after another historic season. Her presence on the ballot underscores the continued meteoric rise of the WNBA in the cultural zeitgeist.
On the men’s side, Jalen Brunson has earned his spot among the elite. After a season that saw him carry his team with high-scoring performances and clutch playmaking, Brunson’s nomination is a testament to his evolution into one of the league’s premier guards. Both athletes represent the high level of competition currently seen in professional basketball, making the voting process for these categories incredibly difficult for fans.
The Ohtani Factor: MLB’s Global Icon
No awards ceremony in the modern era would be complete without Shohei Ohtani. The MLB sensation continues to defy the limits of what is possible on a baseball field, and his inclusion in the 2026 ESPYS nominees comes as no surprise to fans or analysts. Ohtani’s ability to impact the game as both a pitcher and a hitter remains a unique phenomenon that has captivated a global audience.
Ohtani is joined by a cohort of MLB stars who have turned the 2025-2026 season into a highlight reel. As baseball continues to see a surge in young talent and power-hitting, the competition for the MLB-specific categories and the overall Best Athlete awards will be one of the primary storylines to watch during the ceremony.
A Celebration Across All Leagues: MLS, NHL, and More
While the headlines often focus on the NBA and MLB, the ESPYS serve as a vital platform for honoring excellence across all major leagues, including the NHL and MLS. The 2026 nominees reflect the growing parity and talent depth across North American sports. Whether it is a game-winning goal on the pitch or a Vezina-caliber performance on the ice, the ESPYS ensure that every major sporting achievement is recognized.
The inclusion of diverse categories—ranging from Best Breakthrough Athlete to Best Play—allows the awards to capture the moments that defined the year. This year’s nominees include several international stars who have made their mark in U.S.-based leagues, highlighting the increasingly global nature of professional sports.
How to Cast Your Vote for the 2026 ESPYS
The power is in the hands of the fans. Unlike many other major awards that rely solely on a committee of experts, the ESPYS lean heavily on fan participation to determine the winners. Voting is currently live on the official ESPN website, where fans can browse through dozens of categories and select their favorites.
- Visit the official ESPYS voting page: Navigate to the 2026 voting portal to see the full list of categories.
- Select your winners: From Best Team to Best Championship Performance, make your voice heard across all sports.
- Share your picks: Join the conversation on social media using the official hashtag to support your favorite athletes.
The 2026 ESPYS promise to be a night of high emotion and well-deserved recognition. As the sports world prepares to gather for this annual tradition, the focus remains on the incredible athletes who have inspired fans with their dedication and skill. Be sure to cast your vote before the window closes to ensure your favorite stars receive the recognition they deserve.
Sources & Original Reporting
- ESPN APIVote for the 2026 ESPYS winners
