ESPY Awards 2023: Jamal Murray wins title with LeBron James and Nikola Jokic
Exactly 1 month ago (on June 13, 2023), the Denver Nuggets defeated the Miami Heat 4-1 in the final series, officially being crowned champion for the first time in the club's history.
Many people talk about Nikola Jokic and the well-deserved Finals MVP title for the Serbian striker. But there is still another name that also leaves an impression: Jamal Murray.
On the podium receiving the trophy, the Canadian defender could not hold back his tears when he realized that he was the champion.
The 2022-23 season can be considered a magical journey not only for the Denver Nuggets but also for Jamal Murray personally. He once missed the entire 2021-22 season because of a ruptured knee ligament (ACL) and was concerned about not being able to regain his form.
But what happened was the complete opposite, Murray re-emerged as strong as he had never been injured. The defender in 1997 became the second star of the team, just behind Jokic and contributed greatly to the championship.
Thanks to creating this special journey, Jamal Murray was voted Best Comeback Athlete by the ESPYs' panel of experts.
He overcame heavyweights, including UFC legend Jon Jones, who returned to the mixed martial arts scene after nearly 3 years of absence and immediately won the UFC belt to claim the No. 1 position in the MMA village.
Also standing on the podium to receive the award, this time Jamal Murray did not cry anymore. He calmly thanked and showed respect to the other athletes nominated for this title.
The funny moment was created by Murray when he overcame UFC legend Jon Jones, then asked the fighter "don't hurt me" and possibly split the title of Best Comeback Athlete.
"This title we can split, don't strangle me," said Jamal Murray.
Returning 18 months away from the field, Jamal Murray averaged 20 points with 4.0 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game, scoring 45.4% FG - 39.8% 3PT.
Entering the Playoffs, "green arrow" played more explosively with 26.1 points, 7.1 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game, even more effective with 47.3% FG, 39.6% 3PT with 92.6% FT.
The NBA championship trophy at the end of the season brought a beautiful ending to Jamal Murray's impressive comeback journey. Now, he will be celebrating once again with the first ESPYs title of his career.
Jamal Murray was one of three NBA basketball players to be honored at the 31st ESPY Awards. Nikola Jokic was honored with the 2023 NBA Player of the Year award, beating out three stars including Jimmy Butler, Joel Embiid and Jayson Tatum.
Meanwhile, LeBron James won the ESPY award for an impressive record-breaking performance by becoming the all-time top scorer. Also at the awards ceremony, James announced that he will continue to play in the upcoming 2023-24 NBA season.
