Speech

On an emotional night in New York, Ernie Johnson paid tribute to his late friend Craig Sager and presented former NBA coach Monty Williams with the 1st Annual Sager Strong Award. Williams retired after the 2015-16 season to better take care of his family following the tragic death of his wife in an automobile accident. Both Johnson and Williams spoke about the bond of the NBA, and the strength and endurance of the both the Sager and Williams’ families.

The Sager Strong Award, named for iconic Turner Sports sideline reporter Craig Sager, will be presented annually to an individual who has been a trailblazer while exemplifying courage, faith, compassion and grace. Continue reading “Monty Williams Presented With Inaugural Sager Strong Award” →

After a season in which he became the first player in 55 years (since Oscar Robertson) to average a triple-double — not to mention the first player to post 42 triple-doubles in a campaign — Russell Westbrook was voted 2016-17 NBA MVP. Watch NBA Commissioner Adam Silver present the award to Westbrook, then watch Russ’s emotional speech to the New York City crowd at the first-ever NBA Awards Show.

Surrounded by his Oklahoma City Thunder teammates, Westbrook thanked his team, his coaches and all those who’ve affected him…but most of all his family. Having to pause for an emotional break, and as his mother and father wiped away tears, Westbrook showed his appreciation in an emotional tribute to the people whose sacrifice made his MVP moment possible.

Not only did the MVP average a triple-double in 2016-17, he also led the NBA in clutch scoring, including four game-winners in the final 10 seconds of regulation or overtime. Continue reading “Russell Westbrook MVP Presentation & Speech” →