Aces Coach Becky Hammon Denies Allegations of Mistreatment Towards Hamby

Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon has firmly denied allegations made by former player Dearica Hamby, who recently filed a federal lawsuit claiming mistreatment related to her pregnancy.

Hamby, who was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks in January 2023, alleges that she faced “repeated acts of intimidation, discrimination, and retaliation” from the Aces and claims the WNBA failed to investigate these issues adequately.

She also contends that her pregnancy was a factor in her trade, which the Aces and Hammon vehemently deny.

Speaking after the Aces’ 87-71 win over the Sparks on Sunday, August 18 2024, Hammon addressed the lawsuit, emphasizing that she has never faced an HR complaint in her 25 years in professional basketball.

Hammon stated that Hamby never filed a formal complaint with the players’ union or the WNBA, and no calls were made about trading her until January 2023. She also denied allegations of bullying, asserting that Hamby received “over-the-top care.”

Hamby, a key player for the Aces during their 2022 WNBA championship season, had re-signed with the team in June 2022.

She revealed her pregnancy in August 2022, and according to her lawsuit, the Aces rescinded previously offered benefits, including team housing and school tuition for her daughter.

Hammon has denied these claims, maintaining that the trade was a business decision aimed at acquiring additional players.

The WNBA conducted an investigation into the matter, resulting in Hammon receiving a two-game suspension and the Aces losing their 2025 first-round draft pick due to separate violations.

Hamby, dissatisfied with the investigation’s outcomes, filed a lawsuit after receiving a “Notice of Right to Sue” from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Hammon reiterated that the decision to trade Hamby was not related to her pregnancy but rather a strategic move to enhance the team, which included signing star player Candace Parker.

Despite the controversy, Hamby has continued her career with the Sparks, earning an All-Star nod and contributing to Team USA’s bronze medal in 3×3 basketball at the Paris Olympics.