Las Vegas Coach Denies Claims of Mistreatment by Former Player

Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon addressed the media following a recent game, responding to allegations made by former player Dearica Hamby, who has filed a lawsuit claiming discrimination during her pregnancy. Hamby alleges that the Aces mistreated her after she informed the organization of her pregnancy, including the removal of team-provided housing and failure to pay her daughter’s school tuition. Hammon firmly denied these claims, stating, “It just didn’t happen,” and emphasized that no HR complaint was ever filed by Hamby. In her defense, Hammon highlighted her extensive experience in the WNBA and NBA, asserting that she has never faced an HR complaint in her 25-year career. She pointed out that Hamby did not file any complaints with the players’ union or the WNBA, reinforcing her stance that the allegations are unfounded. Hammon also clarified that the decision to trade Hamby was made for strategic reasons, specifically to facilitate the signing of future Hall of Famer Candace Parker. Hamby, who was recognized as the league's Sixth Player of the Year in 2019 and 2020, has taken her claims further by filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC ruled in May that she had the right to sue, indicating that the legal battle over these allegations is far from over. As the situation unfolds, both parties remain firm in their respective positions regarding the circumstances surrounding Hamby's departure from the Aces.