Jimmy Valvano’s Famous ESPY Speech [VIDEO]

In honor of the 20th anniversary of the ESPY's tonight and ESPN Radio's V Foundation Auction today, here is Jimmy V's famous "Don't Give Up, Don't Ever Give Up" speech from March 4, 1993.

This is my all-time favorite speech.  Jimmy V's fantastic speech in 1993 had everything.  It had humor, depth, and emotion.  The speech was filled with great stories that taught important lessons and inspired people in multiple ways.  It always struck me how relaxed and comfortable Jim Valvano seemed to be while delivering this speech.  He sounded like a guy who was fully healthy and totally at peace while talking to a few family members in his kitchen on a Sunday morning.  The man was close to dying yet still put everybody at ease.  That's powerful.

Jimmy V's famous "don't give up, don't ever give up" message has stood the test of time.  Those words haven't been forgotten, especially when it comes to cancer research.  The fact that Jimmy V's life ended so soon due to cancer is also a constant reminder about how important cancer research is.  ESPN Radio is conducting its V Foundation Auction today.  If you would like to donate some money or bid on a prize, operators will be on hand at their call center from 6am-midnight on July 11.  The number is: 800-4JimmyV.  All donations are helpful.

Brian Noe is the Brand Manager at 104.5 The Team, ESPN Radio in Albany, NY.  Brian also hosts “The Noe Show” each weekday from 1-3pm ET on WTMM.