The Las Vegas Aces are in trouble…trou-bull. (Bernie Mac voice).
The WNBA announced penalties against the team following an investigation that was prompted by a complaint filed by player Dearica Hamby on January 21, 2023.
After she was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks, Dearica rang the alarm on how the Las Vegas Aces handled negotiations in regard to an extension of her contract and how they “traumatized” her after her pregnancy announcement.
She took to Instagram and put the Aces on full blast in a lengthy statement.
Dearica Hamby wrote:
I am heartbroken. Being traded is a part of the business. Being lied to, bullied, manipulated, and discriminated against is not.
I have had my character and work ethic attacked. I was promised things to entice me to sign my contract extension that were not followed through on.
I was accused of signing my extension knowingly pregnant. This is false. I was told that I was “a question mark” and that it was said that I said I would “get pregnant again” and there was a concern for my level of commitment to the team.
I was told that “I didn’t hold up my end of the bargain” (Because ”no one expected me to get pregnant in the next two years”). Did the team expect me to promise not to get pregnant in exchange for the contract extension?
I was asked if I planned my pregnancy. When I responded, “no,” I was then told that I “was not taking precautions not to get pregnant.”
I was being traded because “I wouldn’t be ready and we needed bodies.” I planned to play this season, and I have expressed my desire to play this season.
I have pushed myself throughout my entire pregnancy and have continued to work out (basketball included) on my own and with team staff – even on days where it was uncomfortable to walk, only to be inaccurately told that “I was not taking my workouts seriously.” And “yeah we just don’t see that” (with my return).
I remained transparent with everyone within the organization, and yet, my honesty was met with coldness, disrespect, and disregard from members of management.
I have only put this organization first since day one before any of them were here. “You’re getting moved regardless and it’s best for your career that you move on from the Aces.”
The unprofessional and unethical way that I have been treated has been traumatizing.
To be treated this way by an organization, BY WOMEN who are mothers, who have claimed “to be in these shoes,” who preach family, chemistry, and women’s empowerment is disappointing and leaves me sick to my stomach.
We fought for provisions that would finally support and protect player parents. That cannot now be used against me.
Read her full statement below.
The WNBA opened an investigation following Dearica’s scathing statement and upon conclusion, they found the Las Vegas Aces were playing foul.
As a result, the WNBA has rescinded the Aces’ 2025 first-round draft pick for violating league rules regarding impermissible player benefits.
The leagues also suspended Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon for two games without pay for violating league and team Respect in the Workplace policies.
Basically, a slap on the wrist.
See the WNBA’s full statement below.
Speaking of the WNBA…get into their new promo featuring the voice of rapper Coi LeRay.
I wish Dearica Hamby the very best with the Sparks.
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