Monty Williams to receive Sager Strong Award at NBA Awards show
San Antonio Spurs vice president of basketball operations Monty Williams will be the recipient of the first-ever Sager Strong Award at the inaugural NBA Awards show on June 26 in New York City.
The award is named after late broadcaster Craig Sager, who died Dec. 15, 2016, after a long battle with acute myeloid leukemia. It will be "presented annually to an individual who has been a trailblazer while exemplifying courage, faith, compassion and grace."
Monty Williams will be the recipient of the inaugural Sager Strong Award at first-ever #NBAAwards - June 26 on TNT https://t.co/khtwsZquZl pic.twitter.com/33qVTerbZQ
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) June 8, 2017
"Craig Sager’s amazing attitude was truly inspirational. He was a champion during his battle, fighting every day with grace and humor. I have great respect for Craig, Stacy and the Sager family so it's humbling to be the first recipient of the Sager Strong Award," said Williams in a press release.
"In our case, my children and I couldn't have made it through the tough times without the grace of God and the wonderful support we received from family and friends. For all of those who prayed for us, everyone who provided us with hope, love and support, it's impossible to thank each of you enough. We are forever grateful."
Williams lost his wife, Ingrid, due to injuries she suffered in a car accident in Oklahoma City back in 2016.
He played for nine seasons as a member of the Orlando Magic, San Antonio Spurs, New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Denver Nuggets. Williams has also worked on the coaching staffs of the Portland Trail Blazers and Oklahoma City Thunder, as well as being the former head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans.
The awards show will feature the presentation of all the NBA's year-end awards, including Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, and Coach of the Year.