NEW: Danielle Green Wins Pat Tillman Award for Service at ESPYs — A True Spartan Warrior Honored

 

In a night filled with emotional tributes and unforgettable moments, one stood out as a shining beacon of courage and resilience — Danielle Green, former Michigan State Women’s Basketball standout, Iraq war veteran, and Purple Heart recipient, was honored with the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2025 ESPY Awards.

 

Green’s story is one of extraordinary determination. After a stellar collegiate basketball career at Michigan State, she enlisted in the U.S. Army, choosing to serve her country in a time of need. In 2004, while stationed in Iraq, Green was severely injured by a rocket-propelled grenade, resulting in the loss of her left arm. Her life was forever changed — but her fighting spirit remained unbroken.

 

Returning home, Green embraced a new mission: empowering fellow veterans and underserved communities. She earned her Master’s degree in counseling and dedicated herself to working with the Department of Veterans Affairs, providing critical mental health support to fellow service members navigating trauma and recovery.

 

At the ESPYs, Green delivered a powerful speech marked by humility and hope. “This award isn’t just about me — it’s about every veteran who chose to rise after the fall. It’s about service beyond the uniform,” she said.

 

The Pat Tillman Award for Service, named after the late NFL player and Army Ranger who died in combat, honors individuals with a strong connection to sports and a commitment to service. Green’s journey — from Spartan point guard to battlefield hero to veteran advocate — is the embodiment of that legacy.

 

Michigan State University and the wider sports and military communities celebrated Green’s achievement as a symbol of perseverance and purpose. She is more than an award recipient — she is a true Spartan warrior, lighting the path for others with grace, grit, and unwavering resilience.