Lubbock is filled with pride as Danielle Green, a former Texas Tech Lady Raiders basketball player, Iraq War veteran, and Purple Heart recipient, received the coveted Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2025 ESPY Awards. The award honors those whose lives reflect Pat Tillman’s attitude of service, leadership, and sacrifice—qualities Danielle Green exemplifies with grace and unwavering strength.
Prior to her deployment to conflict zones and hospital wards, Green was a tough basketball competitor at Texas Tech, recognized for her tenacity, hustle, and leadership skills. As a Lady Raider, she played with heart, never backing down from a challenge—characteristics that would ultimately form the basis of her life’s mission far beyond basketball.
Before her voyage to conflict zones and hospital wards, Green was a tough basketball competitor at Texas Tech, recognized for her tenacity, hustle, and leadership. As a Lady Raider, she played with passion, never backing down from a challenge—characteristics that would eventually serve as the cornerstone of her life’s mission far beyond basketball.
Today, Green works as a Veterans Service Coordinator with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, where she serves as a trusted guide and support system for fellow veterans facing the mental, emotional, and physical challenges of life after the military. Her work is deeply personal and impactful, often helping veterans struggling with PTSD, loss of limbs, and reintegration into civilian life.
Her narrative enthralled the ESPY audience, and during her emotional acceptance speech, Green thanked those who had supported her. “I’ve been a teammate on the basketball court and on the battlefield,” she told me. “But now, my greatest honor is to stand with my fellow veterans and make sure none of them have to walk through pain alone.”
Texas Tech University and the Lubbock community have showered Green with pride and adoration. Former teammates, coaches, and fans used social media to express their sincere congratulations, with the hashtag #RaiderStrong trending locally. “Danielle represents the absolute best of what it means to be a Red Raider,” stated Krista Gerlich, Head Coach of Texas Tech Women’s Basketball. “Her courage, service, and heart inspire us all.”
The Pat Tillman Award for Service, named after the former NFL great who gave up a lucrative profession to serve in the United States Army and sadly died in Afghanistan, is reserved for people whose dedication to helping others comes first. Danielle Green has now deservedly joined that distinguished group. Danielle Green’s path from Lubbock hardwood to Iraqi battlefields and now to the hallways of the VA exemplifies tenacity, elegance, and unshakable purpose. Congratulations, Danielle. You are a great American hero.