In a key lime suit, 2022 ESPYS host Stephen Curry was the MVP of the night
Delivering an entertaining performance, 2022 ESPYS host Stephen Curry roasted and boasted on stage as he became only the second NBA player to ever to host the sports award show. The superstar athlete seemed to fit in just fine as he took the honor of hosting, following the many other comedians, actors, and athletes who have taken the stage.
In a fitting coincidence, “Number 30” from the Golden State Warriors celebrated the 30th edition of the ESPYS ceremony with an opening monologue filled with jokes. Known for his big shots, the 2022 NBA Finals MVP and 2022 ESPYS host Stephen Curry took a shot at his rival, LeBron James, who also hosted the show back in 2007.
I’m the second NBA player to host this award show, which is kind of crazy to think about,” said Curry at the ESPYS. “LeBron James, he hosted this award show back in 2007, after losing in the NBA Finals. So yes, you guessed it, this feels better, this feels better.”
The 4-time NBA champion also made some jokes on future first ballot NFL Hall of Famer, Tom Brady. “Tom Brady, he’s the only guy I know on earth who would rather get hit by Aaron Donald than hang out with a supermodel,” said Curry. “We all make choices and sometimes you don’t understand some of them.” Luckily, both Curry and Brady have been good friends as they often golf together during their offseasons.
In a serious manner, WNBA players Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith joined the 2022 ESPYS host Stephen Curry on stage to address the ongoing status surrounding WBNA superstar Brittney Griner as she continues to be detained overseas in Russia.
“It’s been 153 nights now that BG has been wrongfully detained thousands of miles away from home, away from her family, away from her friends, away from her team,” said Diggins-Smith. “All throughout that time, we’ve kept her in our thoughts and in our hearts even though we know that ain’t nearly enough to bring her home, y’all.”
Curry, who was dressed in a tracksuit over Griner’s Phoenix Mercury jersey, vocalized the effort to set Griner free. “But as we hope for the best, we urge the entire global sports community to continue to stay energized on her behalf,” he said. “She’s one of us, the team of athletes in this room tonight and all over the world. A team that has nothing to do with politics or global conflict.”
In addition to winning the Best NBA Player and Best Record-Breaking Performance awards, 2022 ESPYS host Stephen Curry celebrated his teammate Klay Thompson for winning the Best Comeback award. Thompson rehabbed for over two years prior to returning this 2022 season in January. The Golden State Warriors also won the Best Team award. What a night for the chef.