OG Anunoby Wins Play of the Year at ESPY Awards
OG Anunoby isn’t the chattiest guy around, but he’s got a great laugh.
The star of the Knicks snagged the Play of the Year title for his crucial tip-in during Game 4 of the NBA Finals at Lincoln Center on Wednesday night. This accolade puts him among just five Knicks-related players to win an ESPY Award.
When Anunoby accepted his award, he began with a humble tone, but it soon shifted to something more lively.
He started off by saying, “Well, it’s really an honor to win this ESPY to cap off a great year and a special moment for our team.” He then paused awkwardly for a moment.
The crowd could see him adjust himself, bending down to the microphone, and he stood there in silence for a few seconds, which felt a bit oddly humorous.
Jalen Brunson, a three-time ESPY winner, along with Mikal Bridges and others in the audience, burst into laughter as Anunoby attempted to continue his speech.
“To the best fans in the world, thank you for your love and support,” he said, stifling a smile. “Winning a championship in this city is truly special, and I want to thank God, my teammates, the entire Knicks organization, and everyone who’s been there for me.”
Finally, he cheered, “Go, Knicks!”
Since joining from the Raptors back in December 2023, Anunoby has quickly become a fan favorite and a beloved teammate, known for his impressive skills and calm demeanor on the court.
He had already made headlines earlier for not completing an Instagram Live after the Knicks celebrated their Finals victory in San Antonio. Shortly after, he caught attention again with his serious look on “Good Morning America.”
But honestly, none of this would have happened without his game-changing tip-in against the Spurs at Madison Square Garden, a moment that solidified his legendary status in New York sports.
During that Game 4, the Knicks staged an incredible comeback, overcoming a 29-point playoff deficit to take the lead in the fourth quarter. Anunoby rushed to the basket and missed Brunson’s three-pointer with just 1.2 seconds left, ultimately leading to their win.
Alongside Anunoby and Brunson’s wins, the Knicks also took home the Best Team award at the ESPYs, wrapping up a sensational season and night.
