Born: 1977 (Rapid City, South Dakota)
Biography:
Rebecca Lynn Hammon, known as Becky Hammon, is an American-Russian professional basketball coach and former player. She was born on March 11, 1977, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Hammon is currently the head coach of the Las Vegas Aces of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Previously, she served as an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Hammon’s journey to becoming a trailblazer in the basketball world is marked by remarkable achievements, groundbreaking milestones, and unyielding determination.
Hammon’s basketball prowess became evident from a young age. Growing up, she spent countless hours honing her skills on the court, playing Nerf ball with her older brother and father. Hammon attended Stevens High School in Rapid City, where she excelled on the basketball court. As a junior, she was recognized as South Dakota Miss Basketball. In her senior year, Hammon was voted the South Dakota Player of the Year, averaging an impressive 26 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 steals per game. She graduated in 1995 and was also voted the female class athlete by her graduating class.
Despite her extraordinary achievements in high school, Hammon struggled to garner attention from college basketball recruiters, who deemed her too small and too slow. However, her determination would not be deterred. She seized the opportunity to play for Colorado State University, where she emerged as a standout player.
Throughout her collegiate career, Hammon earned the distinction of being a three-time All-American basketball player for the Colorado State Rams. Her remarkable skills and leadership qualities propelled the team to new heights. Hammon’s college achievements showcased her ability to overcome obstacles and proved that resilience and talent know no bounds.
Following her successful college career, Hammon embarked on a professional basketball journey that would solidify her status as a basketball legend. She played for the San Antonio Stars and the New York Liberty of the WNBA, leaving an indelible mark on the league. In addition to her WNBA career, Hammon ventured beyond the United States to play for several teams internationally.
One of the most significant moments in Hammon’s career came in 2008 when she made the decision to become a naturalized Russian citizen. This move allowed her to represent the Russian national team in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. Hammon’s dual citizenship and her representation of Russia in international competitions added a unique dimension to her already impressive basketball resume.
In 2014, Hammon made history when she was hired by the San Antonio Spurs as an assistant coach. She became the first Russian assistant coach and the second female assistant coach in NBA history. This groundbreaking achievement shattered glass ceilings, opening doors for other women in the coaching realm. Hammon’s appointment as a full-time assistant coach also marked another historic milestone, as she became the first Russian and first female full-time assistant coach in any of the four major professional sports in North America.
Hammon’s impact extended beyond her coaching role with the Spurs. In 2015, she made history once again as the Summer League head coach for the Spurs. Hammon became the first Russian and woman to take the helm as a head coach in that league. Her ability to lead and inspire garnered praise and admiration from players, coaches, and fans alike.
On December 30, 2020, Hammon made NBA history once again. During a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, she became the first Russian and woman acting head coach in NBA history when Spurs’ head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected. This milestone further cemented Hammon’s status as a trailblazer and a driving force for change and representation in the basketball world.
In December 2021, Hammon took on a new challenge as she was appointed the head coach of the Las Vegas Aces, making her the first Russian coach in WNBA history. This role allowed her to return to the team where she had previously played from 2007 to 2014 when they were known as the San Antonio Stars. Her number has been retired by the organization, symbolizing her impact and legacy in the franchise.
Hammon’s contributions to the basketball world have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, it was announced that she would be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. This recognition attests to her extraordinary talent, perseverance, and significant influence on the sport.
Awards:
– Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inductee (2023)
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