New York Knicks star OG Anunoby brought a touch of humour to the 2026 ESPY Awards with a memorable acceptance speech that took an unexpected turn. The event, held on July 15, at the David H. Koch Theater within Lincoln Center, showcased not only outstanding athletic achievements but also the personalities behind the athletes.
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Anunoby was celebrating his victory for Best Play, a title earned after a stellar performance leading his team to an NBA Championship earlier in June. Although honoured to accept the accolade, he found himself in a comical situation as he towered over the microphone, making it a challenge to address the audience. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches, Anunoby took his moment in stride, providing a light-hearted atmosphere amidst the formal event.
As he began to speak, the excitement in the room was palpable. Fans and fellow players chanted his name affectionately, “OG, OG, OG,” which prompted a warm smile from the 28-year-old forward. “It’s truly such an honour to win an ESPY to cap off an amazing year and special moment for our team,” he stated, reinforcing the team spirit that characterised his remarks.
The humorous highlight came when Anunoby realised the mic was a tad too low for him. With a cheeky adjustment, he widened his stance and crouched slightly to position himself better for the microphone. The audience erupted in laughter as he endeared himself to those present by quipping, “To the best fans in the world…,” delivering his gratitude for their unwavering support.
Meanwhile, his teammate Jalen Brunson, who was seated nearby, could barely contain his laughter at the moment. The camaraderie among Knicks players was clear, as Brunson showcased his amusement at Anunoby’s predicament. The jovial banter continued as Anunoby expressed his thanks to the fans, “Winning a championship for this city is truly so special”, also acknowledging his teammates and the Knicks organisation.
After concluding with an enthusiastic “Go Knicks!” Anunoby exited the stage, leaving the audience buzzing with excitement and laughter. His acceptance speech encapsulated both the joy of victory and the bonds formed within the team.
The light-hearted moments did not end there. Widely shared on social media, the clip of Anunoby adjusting to the microphone quickly became a sensation, with other players, like Knicks centre Karl-Anthony Towns, joining in on the fun by posting about it online. “OG” followed by three laughing emojis, took to X to share his thoughts on Anunoby’s amusing moment, showing that camaraderie goes beyond the court.
Anunoby’s triumph at the ESPYs comes on the heels of the Knicks’ remarkable performance in the NBA Finals, where they clinched the title by narrowly defeating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in a thrilling Game 5 on June 13. This championship win marked a significant achievement for the franchise and highlighted the impact of Anunoby’s contributions throughout the season.
The popularity of Anunoby as a player extends beyond his sharpshooting and defensive capabilities. He has proven to be a source of entertainment both on and off the court. A recent anecdote from the championship celebrations provided another example of his endearing personality. Following the celebratory chaos in the Knicks’ locker room, a video surfaced showing him attempting to end an Instagram Live stream amidst teammates spraying champagne and chanting joyfully in the background. In the clip, Anunoby hilariously asked for help, “Wait, how do you end this?” showcasing his relatable side even in moments of jubilation.
As the Knicks move forward from their championship victory, it is clear that Anunoby is not just a key player, but also a cherished figure within the league. His blend of athletic skill and a down-to-earth personality has won over fans, making him a beloved character in the world of basketball. As the accolades continue to roll in, both Anunoby and the Knicks organisation will undoubtedly be eager to build upon their recent success for many more exciting seasons ahead.