The Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) has announced that it will investigate allegations made by basketball player Dearica Hamby against the Las Vegas Aces. Hamby, who was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday, has claimed that the Aces discriminated against her due to her pregnancy.
In an Instagram post, Hamby detailed her grievances, asserting that while trades are a standard aspect of professional sports, being “lied to, bullied, manipulated, and discriminated against” is unacceptable.
Hamby, who had signed a two-year extension with the Aces in June, refuted claims that she knew about her pregnancy when signing the contract. She said that she was labeled as a “question mark” and that her commitment to the team was questioned.
Hamby announced her second pregnancy after the Aces’ 2022 WNBA Finals win. She claimed the team doubted her ability to play this season and criticized her for not taking workouts seriously despite her continued efforts to stay in shape throughout her pregnancy.
The WNBPA has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation to ensure that Hamby’s rights under the league’s labor agreement and relevant laws were upheld. The association did not comment further on Hamby’s specific allegations.
The Las Vegas Aces have not yet responded to requests for comment from CNN. Aces general manager Natalie Williams acknowledged Hamby’s contributions to the team in a statement following the trade, expressing gratitude for her eight years with the organization.
Hamby, who was drafted sixth overall in the 2015 WNBA Draft by the San Antonio Silver Stars (which later became the Aces), was named WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year in 2019 and 2020. She averaged 9.3 points and 7.1 rebounds last season, helping the Aces secure their first WNBA championship.
In her response to the trade, Hamby expressed optimism about her future with the Los Angeles Sparks and excitement to return to the court.