The controversy surrounding Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon and former player Dearica Hamby continues to escalate. Hamby filed a lawsuit against the Aces and the WNBA last Monday, claiming that she was mistreated and discriminated against due to her pregnancy in July 2022. She alleges that the team’s actions, including her trade to the Los Angeles Sparks in January 2023, were a direct result of her pregnancy.
Hammon, however, has categorically denied these accusations. In a statement following the Aces’ 87-71 victory over the Sparks on Sunday, Hammon stated that she has never faced an HR complaint in her 25-year career in the NBA and WNBA. She further emphasized that Hamby never filed a formal complaint with the players’ union or the WNBA. Hammon also stated that the trade was initiated by the Atlanta Dream in January 2023 and that she provided Hamby with unwavering support throughout her pregnancy. She highlighted that Hamby was given the freedom to practice or rest as she desired and received “over-the-top care”.
The WNBA had previously investigated the situation and suspended Hammon for two games in May 2023 for violating Respect in the Workplace policies. While the specifics of the violation were not disclosed, the league’s investigation clearly found merit in Hamby’s claims.
Hamby, a three-time WNBA All-Star, spent eight seasons with the Aces (formerly known as the San Antonio Stars), winning a championship in 2022 and earning the Sixth Woman of the Year Award twice. She is currently enjoying a career-best season with the Sparks, averaging 18.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 27 games. However, her performance against the Aces on Sunday was hampered by a 4-of-12 shooting performance, leaving her with just 13 points.
The lawsuit filed by Hamby sheds light on the complexities of pregnancy and motherhood in professional sports. The WNBA’s investigation and Hammon’s suspension highlight the league’s commitment to addressing workplace discrimination. However, the contrasting narratives presented by Hamby and Hammon underscore the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to determine the truth behind these allegations.
