God’s MVP: Why the ESPYs Left Him Off the Roster

The 2024 ESPY Awards rolled out the red carpet but somehow forgot to roll out any gratitude towards the big guy upstairs. As athletes basked in their starlight, thanking everyone from coaches to parents, God was noticeably left hanging. Simone Biles took home two trophies and wrapped up her speech with an empowering message about the “power of she,” but not a peep for the Creator. If the divine was in the audience, it must have felt like being ghosted at a dinner party.

Alex Morgan also brought the fire, crediting women who paved the way and insisting they should never apologize for speaking out. Ilona Maher celebrated the idea that “strong is beautiful,” yet the acknowledgment of spiritual strength was MIA. Even award-winning NBA legend Oscar Robertson chose to reflect on his battles for player rights, all while forgetting that courage itself can be a gift from above. It seems the ESPYs are on a mission to secularize the stage, but that’s not quite what fans want to hear.

Meanwhile, outside the Hollywood bubble, athletes like Aaron Judge and Patrick Mahomes don’t shy away from crediting their success to God. Judge proudly declared that his relationship with Jesus Christ means way more than any trophy. So why the double standard? While the fans are ready to cheer for their faith in sports, it’s the award show heads who seem to be shying away. Perhaps it’s time for a little divine intervention at award ceremonies—after all, isn’t it nice to thank the One who gives us the breath to speak those acceptance speeches?

What do you think: should faith have a place in sports accolades, or is it best left offstage?

About the Author

View All Posts