Fernando Mendoza, A’ja Wilson among top winners at ESPYs

Fernando Mendoza and A'ja Wilson were among the top honorees at the ESPYs on Wednesday. Mendoza, the Las Vegas Raiders’ quarterback, was recognized for leading Indiana to the national championship and taking home the ESPY for best male athlete. He attended the ESPN awards show at Lincoln Center in New York City with his family and accepted the award on stage. “Football is the ultimate team sport and though this award has 1 name on it, it belonged to so many people,” Mendoza told the crowd, thanking Indiana teammates, coaches and fans along with his family. “God bless. Go Raiders.” He also congratulated the other nominees — Duke basketball player Cameron Boozer, Penn State wrestler Mitchell Mesenbrink and N.C. State football player Donavan Phillip. Mendoza was also nominated for best breakthrough athlete, an award that went to Olympic gold‑medal figure skater Alysa Liu. Wilson, the reigning WNBA MVP who guided the Aces to another championship, captured the ESPY for best female athlete and the award for best WNBA player.