With the first annual NBA Awards show only a few weeks from now, Turner Sports has announced one of the winners for the awards to be given on the night.
After showing a lot of courage following the loss of his wife due to a car accident back in December, TNT has decided to give the inaugural “Sager Strong” award to San Antonio Spurs vice president Monty Williams on June 26, according to the Associated Press via Metro News. It will be a tribute to longtime courtside reporter Craig Sager, who passed away in December as well following his long battle with Leukemia.
“Turner announced that San Antonio Spurs vice-president of basketball operations Monty Williams will receive the inaugural “Sager Strong” award at the NBA Awards show, which airs on June 26 on TNT. Turner says the award will be presented annually to “an individual who has been a trailblazer while exemplifying courage, faith, compassion and grace.”
Williams was part of a lot of headlines when he gave a very touching and inspirational message during the eulogy services for his wife. Instead of grief, he looked at his situation as a blessing and also said he knows his wife is in a better place now. He then added that he is not questioning God for what happened, because he believes there is a better plan for her.
Sager on the other hand served as a source of motivation for a lot of people as he faced his sickness head on and underwent multiple bone marrow transplants. He still reported from the sidelines despite his condition and did not show any ill effects from it while on the job. He has gained the respect of the entire NBA community and having the award named after him is a fitting tribute to his legacy.