Danielle Green Wins Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY Awards
Danielle Green, a former standout player for the Notre Dame women’s basketball team, has been honored with the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2025 ESPY Awards. Green, an Iraq War veteran and Purple Heart recipient, was recognized for her outstanding service to her country and her continuous commitment to helping fellow veterans.
Green’s journey to the ESPY stage is a remarkable one. After a successful career on the basketball court, where she was known for her toughness and determination, Green enlisted in the U.S. Army. While serving in Iraq in 2004, she sustained life-changing injuries during a firefight, resulting in the loss of her left hand. Despite the severity of her injuries, Green’s resilience shone through, and she continued to serve her country with courage.
Following her recovery, Green transitioned to civilian life and began focusing on helping others who had faced similar struggles. She currently works as a counselor for veterans in South Bend, Indiana, where she assists former service members in navigating the challenges of reintegration into civilian life. Her passion for supporting veterans and her unwavering dedication to improving their well-being earned her the recognition at the ESPYs.
The Pat Tillman Award for Service is presented annually to an individual who has made a significant impact through their service to others. Green’s efforts mirror the legacy of Tillman, the former NFL player who gave up his professional career to serve in the military and was killed in action in Afghanistan.
During her acceptance speech, Green expressed gratitude for the honor, highlighting her pride in serving her country and the ongoing mission to support veterans. Her recognition at the ESPYs serves as a testament to the power of resilience, leadership, and service to others, both on and off the battlefield.
