The WNBA was honored Wednesday with the 2022 League Humanitarian Leadership Award at the 2022 ESPYS. As part of the Sports Humanitarian Awards, the leadership award recognizes professional sports leagues that use their platforms and resources to make a difference.
The WNBA has transcended the game of basketball by working with local communities, fighting for equality, and promoting health equity, LGBTQ+ representation and criminal justice reform.
In 2020, the WNBA and its player's union launched The Justice Movement and its Social Justice Council, which amplifies the voices and leadership of WNBA players. The league also drives awareness and programming around mental health and the dangerous impact of systemic racism in healthcare. Last year, it partnered with the Black Women's Health Imperative to help protect and advance the health and wellness of Black women and girls.