Several members of the New England Patriots will get some national attention when the 10th Annual ESPY Awards are aired lived on ESPN Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 9 p.m. ET from Hollywood's Kodak Theatre.
The all-star gala, which will be hosted by actor Samuel L. Jackson, will include many of the biggest names in the sports and entertainment industries. The list of 65 nominees in 35 categories scheduled to attend includes eight members of the Super Bowl champion's organization. Quarterback Tom Brady, wide receiver Troy Brown, Head Coach Bill Belichick, linebacker Larry Izzo, Owner Robert Kraft, safety Lawyer Milloy, linebacker/defensive end Willie McGinest and kicker Adam Vinatieri are all expected to be a part of the event.
Among the entertainment celebrities participating in the show are actors Tim Allen, Shannon Elizabeth, Vivica A. Fox, Diane Lane, Matthew Perry, Jeri Ryan, Adam Sandler, David Spade and Kiefer Sutherland and singers Toni Braxton and Brian McKnight. In addition, actor Tom Hanks will participate in the ESPY Awards telecast by voicing over the Arthur Ashe Courage Award presentation.
Santana, Snoop Dogg, Bootsy Collins and the Original P-Funk will perform, while Clarence Clemons Temple of Soul will serve as house band.
The ESPN telecast will be preceded by a one-hour Live From the Red Carpet: The 2002 ESPY Awards at 8:00 p.m. on E! Entertainment Television. The ESPY Awards set the stage for the sports world to celebrate athletic achievements, relive the memorable moments and salute the best performers and performances.
The Patriots are represented in six of the 35 featured categories. Brady is up for Best Breakthrough Athlete and Best NFL Player; Belichick is nominated for Best Coach; Vinatieri is in the Best Sports Moment category for his game-winning field goal in the Super Bowl. In addition, the Patriots as a whole are nominated for Best Team, and Super Bowl XXXVI is competing for Best Game. Winners will be chosen by the ESPY Awards Academy, which includes Hall of Fame athletes and coaches as well as nationally recognized print and broadcast sports journalists representing every major outlet.
