Craig Sager’s perseverance, determination and courage were once again on full display as he accepted the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2016 ESPYS on Wednesday.
Craig Sager delivers inspirational ESPYs speech about fighting cancer
The 65-year-old has been an inspiration to many during his extended bout with cancer. He shared some powerful words after excepting the award.
“If I missed a game, it meant I was losing the battle,” Sager said. “I’m not going to let leukemia hurt me.”
Sager was first diagnosed with leukemia in 2014. He underwent extensive treatment over 11 months and was eventually able to return to his duties as a sideline reporter for TNT. However, shortly after his return, he revealed that his cancer was no longer in remission.
Despite the relapse, Sager continued to work the NBA playoffs. On some occasions, he received treatment in the morning and then drove long distances just to be able to make the game that night. He also worked his first NBA Finals game this past season, partnering with ESPN to make his finals debut.
He talked about living life to the fullest and seeing each day as a blessing regardless of your circumstances. You can count down the hours of life, or you can simply enjoy the time you have. He called each day a canvas, just waiting to be painted.
“I will live my life full of love and full of fun,” he said. “It’s the only way I know how.”
Many in the NBA community have rallied around Sager. The hashtag #SagerStrong was popular on social media throughout the season. Other sideline reporters even paid homage to him to show their support by dressing up in their wackiest outfits, a nod to Sager’s unique style.
