In a groundbreaking move that has sent shockwaves through the world of women’s basketball, Dearica Hamby, a three-time WNBA All-Star and recent Olympic bronze medalist, has filed a federal lawsuit against the WNBA and her former team, the Las Vegas Aces. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada, alleges discrimination and retaliation over her pregnancy, marking a significant moment in the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in professional sports.
The Allegations
Hamby’s lawsuit outlines a series of troubling claims:
- Loss of reputational prestige and brand value
- Loss of marketing and endorsement opportunities
- Withdrawal of promised incentives, including:
- Private tuition costs for her daughter
- Team-provided housing
- Questioning of her dedication and commitment by Aces coach Becky Hammon
The lawsuit alleges that these actions occurred after Hamby informed the team of her pregnancy, leading to a drastic change in how she was treated by the organization.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2023 | Hamby traded to Los Angeles Sparks |
| February 2023 | WNBA opens investigation into Aces |
| May 2023 | WNBA completes investigation, suspends Hammon |
| September 2023 | Hamby files EEOC complaint |
| May 2024 | EEOC issues “notice of right to sue” |
| Present | Federal lawsuit filed |
The trade to the Sparks in January 2023 appears to be the catalyst for the ensuing legal battle. Following the trade, Hamby, through the WNBA Player’s Association, requested an investigation into the Aces’ conduct. The league’s subsequent inquiry found that the Aces had indeed violated league rules for impermissible player benefits.
WNBA’s Response and Hammon’s Suspension
The WNBA’s investigation concluded with serious repercussions for the Aces:
- The team was found to have violated league rules
- Coach Becky Hammon was suspended for two games without pay
- Hammon was cited for violating league and team Respect in the Workplace policies
Despite these actions, Hamby’s legal team argues that the WNBA’s response was insufficient. They claim that the league “had the authority to rescind the trade but chose not to” and that the actions taken did not adequately address the violation of Hamby’s rights or offer her any substantial remedy.
Hamby’s Career Resurgence and Olympic Success
Amidst the legal turmoil, Hamby has shown remarkable resilience on the court:
- Averaging career-highs with the Sparks:
- 19.2 points per game
- 10 rebounds per game
- 3.5 assists per game
- Won bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics as part of Team USA’s 3×3 women’s basketball team
These achievements underscore the potential impact of the alleged discrimination on Hamby’s career trajectory and brand value.
Legal Proceedings and Sought Damages
The federal lawsuit represents a significant escalation in Hamby’s pursuit of justice. Key aspects of the legal process include:
- Filing of a charge of discrimination complaint with the EEOC in September 2023
- Receipt of “notice of right to sue” from EEOC in May 2024
- Current lawsuit seeking damages through a jury trial
The lawsuit argues that the WNBA failed to take adequate action regarding the alleged discrimination and retaliation. It seeks to address not only the immediate impacts on Hamby’s career but also the broader implications for pregnant athletes in professional sports.
Industry Silence and Ongoing Developments
As of the latest reports, both the Las Vegas Aces and the WNBA have remained silent on the matter, declining to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings. This silence has only fueled further speculation and debate within the sports community about the treatment of pregnant athletes and the responsibilities of professional leagues.
The lawsuit’s progression through the legal system is being closely watched by players, fans, and industry insiders alike. Its outcome could have far-reaching implications for women’s sports, potentially setting precedents for how leagues and teams handle pregnancy among their athletes.
As the case unfolds, it continues to shine a spotlight on the challenges faced by female athletes balancing their professional careers with personal life decisions. The sports world awaits further developments, with many hoping that this case will lead to positive changes in policies and attitudes towards pregnancy in professional sports.
