Houston, get ready for an adrenaline-packed ride as the countdown to the much-anticipated Houston Sports Awards has officially begun! Returning for the seventh consecutive year on Jan. 30, this spectacular event is set to illuminate the city with the glitz and glamour of athletic excellence. Among the various categories that make this celebration truly remarkable, there’s one that stands out – the Moment of the Year.
In a year that offered a plethora of unforgettable experiences for Houston sports enthusiasts, the nominees for the Moment of the Year category are nothing short of extraordinary. From nail-biting victories to awe-inspiring performances, these moments have etched themselves into the hearts of fans. Join us as we take a closer look at the incredible highlights that have earned their place in the spotlight at the Houston Sports Awards. Scroll down to relive the magic!
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Valdez’s no-hitter magic 🪄⚾
In a moment etched in the annals of Houston sports history, Houston Astros pitcher Framber Valdez emerged as a true pitching maestro during a face-off against the Cleveland Guardians, securing his nomination for the Houston Sports Awards’ Moment of the Year. The Astros’ left-hander delivered a flawless performance, facing the minimum batters and achieving a no-hitter in a remarkable 2-0 victory. Valdez’s masterclass included a mere one walk, seven strikeouts, and an impressive 93-pitch display of precision on the mound.
This no-hitter marked the 16th in Houston Astros history, with Valdez joining an elite group of pitchers who have achieved this rare feat. The significance of his achievement was not lost on manager Dusty Baker, who praised Valdez’s stellar performance, highlighting his early command of the breaking ball. As the Astros rallied to congratulate their standout pitcher, the outfield erupted in celebration, culminating in a shower of fireworks that illuminated the Houston sky—a fitting tribute to an extraordinary moment in the world of sports.
Butler’s buzzer-beater bonanza 🏀🎉
In a heart-stopping moment that reverberated through the Houston sports scene, San Diego State’s Lamont Butler etched his name in Final Four history, earning a coveted nomination for the Houston Sports Awards’ Moment of the Year. As the Final Four unfolded in Houston for the third time since 2011, Butler seized the spotlight with a game-changing buzzer-beater against FAU. This thrilling victory marked the second time a game played in Houston concluded with a buzzer-beater, adding an extra layer of excitement to the city’s basketball legacy.
Butler’s heroics not only secured a classic win for San Diego State but also contributed to the rich tapestry of buzzer-beating moments in Men’s Final Four history—a feat celebrated and remembered by sports enthusiasts far and wide.
UH’s Hail Mary heroics 🏈🙏
In a jaw-dropping moment that resonated across Houston, the University of Houston’s football team etched their names in the history books with a Hail Mary for the ages, earning a nomination for the Houston Sports Awards’ Moment of the Year.
Facing off against West Virginia, quarterback Donovan Smith orchestrated a game-defining play, throwing a 49-yard Hail Mary that found its mark in the hands of Stephon Johnson as time expired. The spectacular catch secured a thrilling 41-39 victory, marking UH’s first-ever Big 12 win. Smith’s stellar performance, completing 21 of 27 passes for 253 yards and four touchdowns, showcased his prowess on the field.
The Hail Mary magic unfolded from midfield, with a tip at the goal line before Johnson’s clutch catch sealed the deal, capping off a historic moment that will be remembered by UH fans for years to come.
Texans’ draft night delight 🏈
In a strategic and game-changing move, the Houston Texans orchestrated a draft night spectacle that has earned them a nomination for the Houston Sports Awards’ Moment of the Year. The 2023 NFL Draft saw the Texans make a bold statement by selecting CJ Stroud with the second overall pick, securing their franchise quarterback.
However, the excitement reached new heights when, amidst the jubilation, the team executed a remarkable move. Trading with Arizona, the Texans acquired the third overall pick and added defensive prowess to their roster with the selection of Alabama outside linebacker Will Anderson Jr. This dynamic duo, Stroud and Anderson, symbolized a new era for the Texans, showcasing strategic prowess and a commitment to building a formidable team. The Texans’ draft night maneuvers stand as a testament to their determination to elevate the franchise to greater heights.
The Dynamo’s dynamo ⚽🏆
In a historic triumph that echoed through the corridors of Houston sports, the Houston Dynamo FC clinched a thrilling victory against Inter Miami CF, earning a coveted nomination for the Houston Sports Awards’ Moment of the Year.
September of 2023 witnessed the Dynamo’s spectacular performance as they emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, claiming the 2023 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. This monumental achievement marked the franchise’s second U.S. Open Cup title, solidifying their status as champions.
The Dynamo’s win not only secured their fourth domestic title but also showcased a triumphant return to the pinnacle of soccer excellence, reminiscent of their earlier MLS Cup glories in 2006 and 2007. The Dynamo’s journey to U.S. Open Cup glory stands as a testament to their resilience and prowess on the field, making it a standout contender for the Moment of the Year.
Join the celebration: Houston Sports Awards await!
The anticipation for the Houston Sports Awards on Jan. 30 is palpable, and we extend a warm invitation for you to join us for this celebration. Randy McIlvoy, KPRC 2 Sports Director, alongside sports reporters Chancellor Johnson and Ari Alexander, will be at the event. Together, they will capture the essence of the evening and bring you closer to the heart of Houston’s sports scene.
Hosting the event is none other than Lance McCullers Jr., who will guide us through an unforgettable night of honoring excellence in sports. The Houston Sports Hall of Fame will welcome new inductees Lance Berkman, Cynthia Cooper, and Warren Moon, legends whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the city’s sporting history.
The excitement doesn’t end there—some of the biggest names and current sports sensations, including C.J. Stroud and José Altuve, are in the running for prestigious awards. It’s a star-studded affair that promises not only recognition for athletic achievements but also moments that will resonate in the hearts of sports enthusiasts.
This year, we’re thrilled to introduce an exclusive opportunity for KPRC 2 Insiders (ages 21+). Gain access to the Red Carpet zone, an area typically off-limits to the general public. With your ticket, you’ll have the chance to be up close and personal, capturing the glamour and glitz as your favorite sports stars make their way down the red carpet. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of the excitement!
For those eager to be part of the celebration, tickets are on sale now. Secure your spot at https://www.click2houston.com/topic/Houston_Sports_Awards/, where you can find more information and purchase your tickets.