The 2026 ESPY Awards, scheduled for early July in New York City, have turned the spotlight on Indiana University’s athletic programs, showcasing a remarkable slate of nominations that span football, basketball and beyond.
A Historic Season for Indiana Football
Indiana’s football squad capped a fairy‑tale campaign with a perfect 16‑0 record, a turnaround that has been credited to second‑year head coach Curt Cignetti. The team surged from a combined nine wins over the 2021‑23 seasons to a historic 27‑2 stretch in 2024‑25, a shift that has electrified fans and pundits alike.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who captured the Heisman Trophy earlier this year, is now up for two ESPY awards — Best Breakthrough Athlete and Best Men’s College Athlete. His 2025 season featured 3,535 passing yards and 41 touchdowns, numbers that helped cement his status as one of the most dynamic signal‑callers in recent memory.
OG Anunoby’s Clutch Moment
Former Indiana basketball star OG Anunoby’s game‑winning tip‑in during the NBA Finals has earned a nod for Best Play. Anunoby finished the Finals averaging 21.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, 1.4 steals and 1.0 assist, shooting 52.5% overall and 50% from three‑point range. His 33‑point performance in Game Four, highlighted by the decisive tip‑in, underscored his impact on the court.
The V Foundation, founded by the late Jim Valvano, continues his legacy of using sport to fight cancer. Fans are encouraged to cast their votes online, with proceeds supporting the foundation’s research initiatives.
The 2026 ESPY Awards will be hosted by comedian Marcello Hernández and take place at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center. The event promises a night of glamour, surprise performances and the chance to honor the athletes who have defined a year of sport.