In a moment of profound recognition, Danielle Green, former Notre Dame women’s basketball player, Iraq war veteran, and Purple Heart recipient, has been awarded the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY Awards. This prestigious honor is given annually to an individual who embodies selflessness, service, and perseverance—qualities that Green has exemplified throughout her life.
From the basketball courts of Notre Dame to the battlefields of Iraq, and now in her work as a counselor for veterans in South Bend, Green’s journey is one of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
A Journey of Strength and Sacrifice
Danielle Green’s path has been anything but ordinary. A Chicago native, she was a standout basketball player at Notre Dame in the late 1990s and early 2000s. She played as a shooting guard for the Fighting Irish, known for her tenacity, work ethic, and leadership. Green’s love for the game and her team-first mentality made her a beloved figure both on and off the court.
However, Green’s journey took a dramatic turn when she enlisted in the U.S. Army after college. With a strong sense of duty and patriotism, she joined the military, determined to serve her country. She was deployed to Iraq as a part of the U.S. Army’s efforts during the early 2000s.
Tragedy struck on May 25, 2004, when Green was severely injured in an attack while stationed near Baghdad. A rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) explosion resulted in the loss of her left arm, an injury that changed the course of her life. Despite the adversity, she refused to let her injury define her, channeling her experience into advocacy and service for fellow veterans.
A New Chapter: Helping Veterans Heal
After recovering from her injuries, Green dedicated herself to helping other veterans navigate the challenges of life after service. She became a counselor specializing in mental health and rehabilitation, working at the Department of Veterans Affairs in South Bend, Indiana.
Her role allows her to provide emotional and psychological support to fellow veterans, helping them transition back into civilian life. Green’s personal experience as a soldier and survivor gives her a unique ability to connect with and inspire those struggling with trauma, PTSD, and physical injuries.
In an interview after receiving the Pat Tillman Award for Service, Green reflected on her journey:
“I never imagined that my path would take me from the basketball court to the battlefield, and now to counseling veterans. But I wouldn’t change a thing. Every experience—good or bad—has made me stronger and given me a greater purpose.”
The Pat Tillman Award: A Fitting Tribute
The Pat Tillman Award for Service was established to honor the legacy of Pat Tillman, the former Arizona Cardinals NFL player who left his professional football career to enlist in the U.S. Army after the 9/11 attacks. Tillman tragically lost his life in 2004 while serving in Afghanistan, but his name remains a symbol of sacrifice and service.
Danielle Green’s story mirrors Tillman’s in many ways—both athletes, both military service members, and both individuals who dedicated their lives to something greater than themselves. Her receipt of the award is a powerful recognition of her perseverance, courage, and commitment to serving others.
A Moment of Celebration and Inspiration
As Green took the stage to accept the award at the ESPYs, the crowd erupted in applause, recognizing not only her military sacrifice but also her continued dedication to helping others. With tears in her eyes, she expressed gratitude for the journey that led her to this moment.