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Kevin Love, McCourty Brothers Finalists for Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award
May 20, 2020
Cleveland Cavaliers forward Kevin Love, New England Patriots defensive backs Devin and Jason McCourty, Minnesota Lynx forward Maya Moore, Minnesota Twins designated hitter Nelson Cruz and WWE Superstar Titus O'Neil were named the 2020 nominees for the Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award.
The honor will be handed out at the 2020 ESPYs in June and is given to the athlete(s) that show the greatest humanitarian work off his or her respective field of play.
"ESPN recognizes that this year more than ever, athletes, teams and leagues have been leading the way in responding to the needs of communities across the country and the world," said Kevin Martinez, vice president of ESPN Corporate Citizenship. "For six years, ESPN has been honored to telecast the Sports Humanitarian Awards, which highlights the impact that sports has to create social change, and we're excited to carry that narrative through the ESPYS and our other platforms."
Love has been at the forefront of mental health awareness issues, using his platform to describe his own battles with depression and anxiety. He has used his Kevin Love Fund to work with schools on initiatives meant to destigmatize the conversations about mental health.
Cruz has donated his time and money to helping out the people in his hometown of Las Matas de Santa Cruz, Dominican Republic. He has provided medical care, including an ambulance and screenings by dentists and optometrists. In addition, he has purchased wheelchairs, crutches, walkers and canes for needy patients.
The McCourty brothers have worked alongside Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker and the state legislature on criminal justice reform, particularly for minor offenders. They also worked with the legislature on a $1.5 billion bill that will provide educational opportunities to low-income areas.
Moore has temporarily stepped away from basketball to work on the case of Jonathan Irons, who was wrongfully accused of burglary and assault. A judge overturned Irons' conviction after he served 23 years of a 50-year sentence.
O'Neil has been involved with several charities during his time in WWE, most notably the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Special Olympics.