ESPN defends selecting Caitlyn Jenner for ESPYS award

NEW YORK -- ESPN is offering some insight as to why it selected Caitlyn Jenner for one of the most coveted awards in sports.

A swarm of controversy began brewing when the network announced Jenner, who came out as a transgender woman, would receive the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at this year's ESPYS.

Critics called the decision an exploitation play to boost ratings.

Producers countered by saying the Arthur Ashe Award is given to someone in the sports community who has done something that transcends sports, and that's what they believe Jenner has done.

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