Danielle Green, former Michigan State Women’s Basketball standout, Iraq War veteran, and Purple Heart recipient, has been awarded the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2025 ESPY Awards. The honor recognizes her unwavering commitment to serving her country and community despite facing incredible adversity.
A Journey of Resilience and Service
Green’s path from the basketball courts of East Lansing to the battlefields of Iraq is a testament to her courage and determination. After graduating from Michigan State, Green chose to serve her country, enlisting in the U.S. Army. While stationed in Baghdad in 2004, her unit came under rocket-propelled grenade fire, resulting in the loss of her left arm. Despite this life-altering injury, Green’s resilience never wavered.
Following her recovery, Green redirected her passion for service into helping others. She earned a Master’s degree in social work and now works as a counselor, dedicating her career to supporting veterans dealing with trauma and mental health challenges.
Recognition at the ESPYs
The Pat Tillman Award for Service, named after the late NFL player who left a promising football career to enlist in the Army and died in combat, honors individuals who exemplify Tillman’s legacy of service and sacrifice. Green’s story of overcoming hardship and giving back to her community made her a natural choice for the award.
In her acceptance speech, Green expressed gratitude to her fellow service members, her Michigan State family, and the veterans she serves. She highlighted the importance of perseverance, stating, “Service doesn’t stop when the uniform comes off. It evolves. And I am honored to play a role in helping others find their strength after facing unimaginable challenges.”
A Spartan Legacy of Excellence
At Michigan State, Green was a key player for the Women’s Basketball team, known for her defensive prowess and leadership on and off the court. Her tenacity as an athlete mirrored the grit she would later display in her military service.
Michigan State University issued a statement celebrating Green’s achievements, calling her a “true Spartan warrior and a beacon of hope and resilience.” The university plans to honor her during the upcoming basketball season with a commemorative ceremony at the Breslin Center.
Inspiration for All
Green’s journey continues to inspire athletes, veterans, and anyone facing challenges. By transforming personal adversity into a mission of service, she embodies the very spirit of the Pat Tillman Award and leaves an indelible mark on all who hear her story.
