Colorful TNT sideline reporter Craig Sager will receive the ESPY's Jimmy V Perseverance Award for his commitment to continue working through his very public battle with leukemia.
Long known for his unique wardrobe and pithy sideline interviews, Sager is in his 24th season as sideline reporter for the "NBA on TNT." He has been reporting during the network’s NBA Playoffs coverage while undergoing clinical trials at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Sager, 64, was first diagnosed with leukemia in 2014. He has publicly vowed to continue reporting emphasizing that work gives him strength.
“When I was diagnosed with cancer, like so many other people, my life changed forever,” Sager said in a release. “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.
“One of those pieces of inspiration has come from Jim Valvano himself. I have his speech saved on my phone and, now 23 years later, its impact lives on with me and countless others. There is no greater honor than receiving this award and I am very humbled.”
http://youtu.be/HuoVM9nm42E?t=45s
Sager was a first-time nominee for a Sports Emmy Award for Outstanding Sports Personality – Sports Reporter in 2012.
The 2016 ESPYS - hosted by wrestler John Cena - will air July 13 on WSB-TV Channel 2 Action News (ABC).
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