Congratulations to Danielle Green, a Purple Heart recipient, Iraq War veteran, and former Notre Dame women’s basketball player,

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Danielle Green grew up poor on Chicago’s South Side and earned an athletic scholarship to Notre Dame, then joined the Army. She lost her lower left arm in a rocket-propelled grenade attack in Iraq and now serves as a counselor to veterans.

“I hope where they think they might not have a chance, the odds are against them, if they were ever to meet me or read my story, they would have hope and resiliency,” Green said, “that they would know if you surround yourself around good mentors, good leaders, good supporters, that you can achieve your dreams.”

Green’s success as a 5-foot-8 guard for the Notre Dame basketball team from 1995 to 2000 and her work helping veterans as a supervisory readjustment counseling therapist at the South Bend Vet Center led to her selection Tuesday as the recipient of the Pat Tillman Award for Service.

 

who won the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPYs. Green is currently employed in South Bend as a counselor for veterans.

 

Danielle Green’s recognition at the 2025 ESPYs with the prestigious Pat Tillman Award for Service is a well-deserved acknowledgment of her extraordinary life and selfless contributions to both her country and her community. As a Purple Heart recipient, an Iraq War veteran, and a former Notre Dame women’s basketball player, Green’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and service. Her achievements and the positive impact she continues to have on the lives of veterans make her a symbol of strength and dedication.

Born and raised in Chicago, Danielle Green was a standout athlete, earning a scholarship to play basketball at Notre Dame, one of the most respected programs in collegiate sports. She was known not just for her skills on the court but for her leadership and determination. Her time at Notre Dame helped lay the foundation for the remarkable path she would take in life, as she balanced athletics with academic achievement and personal growth. In those early years, few could have predicted the challenges Green would face, or the unique way in which she would go on to serve her country and her community.

In 2004, following her graduation from Notre Dame, Green enlisted in the U.S. Army, driven by a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to make a difference. She was deployed to Iraq during the height of the Iraq War. While on a mission in 2004, Green’s life changed forever. She was severely injured by a grenade explosion, resulting in the loss of her left hand and significant damage to her left arm. Despite the traumatic injury, Green’s resolve never wavered. She was awarded the Purple Heart for her bravery and sacrifice, but it was her mental and emotional fortitude that truly set her apart.

Rather than letting her injuries define her, Green chose to focus on her recovery and her ongoing commitment to serving others. She became a passionate advocate for veterans, working to help her fellow service members navigate the challenges they face when transitioning back to civilian life. After returning from Iraq, Green continued her education, earning a degree in counseling. Her desire to give back to those who had served alongside her led her to a job as a counselor for veterans in South Bend, Indiana, where she currently resides. In her role, she helps veterans with their mental health, providing crucial support to those struggling with PTSD, depression, and the complexities of reintegrating into civilian society.

Green’s work as a counselor is just one aspect of her profound impact. She has spoken at numerous veteran events, advocating for the well-being of those who have served and raising awareness about the challenges veterans face. In every capacity, she continues to embody the spirit of service, always putting the needs of others before her own. Her journey from Notre Dame basketball player to wounded warrior to counselor is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, proving that even in the face of immense adversity, one can rise and make a lasting impact.

Receiving the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPYs is not just an acknowledgment of Green’s military service, but also a celebration of her relentless commitment to helping others. Like Pat Tillman, whose selflessness and sacrifice on the battlefield inspired a nation, Danielle Green’s life is a beacon of courage and compassion. Her story continues to inspire not only veterans but all those who believe in the power of service, healing, and community.