Mikal Bridges mispronounced at ESPYs, Knicks fans furious

Mikal Bridges' name was mispronounced by an ESPN host at the ESPYs red carpet, sparking outrage from New York Knicks fans. The incident occurred on July 16, 2026, during the annual sports awards ceremony.

What happened at the ESPYs?

The ESPN host, whose name was not disclosed, mispronounced Mikal Bridges' name during an interview on the red carpet. Instead of saying 'Mikal,' the host said 'Michael,' a common mistake for those unfamiliar with the NBA player's name. The error was quickly noticed by fans, particularly those of the Knicks, who took to social media to express their frustration.

Why it matters for Mikal Bridges

Mikal Bridges is a key player for the New York Knicks, and his name is often mispronounced despite his prominence in the NBA. The mispronunciation at the ESPYs highlights a recurring issue that Bridges and other athletes with unique names face. Fans see this as a lack of respect and professionalism from the media.

What comes next?

The incident has sparked a conversation about the importance of correctly pronouncing athletes' names. Knicks fans are calling for better preparation from media personnel to avoid such mistakes in the future. Mikal Bridges has not yet commented on the incident, but the story continues to gain traction on social media.