WNBA Star Dearica Hamby’s Pregnancy Saga: A Fight for Justice
WNBA forward Dearica Hamby has filed a federal lawsuit against the WNBA and her former team, the Las Vegas Aces, alleging discrimination and retaliation after revealing her pregnancy.
The Lawsuit
Hamby’s lawsuit alleges that the Aces subjected her to intimidation, discrimination, and retaliation after she informed them of her pregnancy in 2022. She claims that the team rescinded her team-provided housing and refused to cover her daughter’s school tuition. She also alleges that coach Becky Hammon questioned her dedication and insinuated that she had planned the pregnancy.
Hamby further claims that the WNBA’s investigation into her allegations was inadequate and failed to hold the Aces and Hammon accountable.
The Investigation and Punishment
In May 2023, the WNBA announced the findings of its investigation into Hamby’s allegations. The league found that Hammon had violated league policies regarding respect in the workplace and suspended her for two games. The Aces were also penalized by losing their 2025 first-round draft pick for impermissible player benefits involving Hamby.
Hamby’s Dissatisfaction
Hamby was dissatisfied with the WNBA’s punishment, which she deemed insufficient. She argued that the league had failed to interview all relevant individuals and that the suspension and draft pick loss were not commensurate with the severity of the violations.
The Aces’ Position
The Aces have denied Hamby’s allegations of discrimination, claiming that the trade was made for basketball reasons. Coach Hammon has also denied questioning Hamby’s dedication or insinuating that she had planned the pregnancy.
EEOC and Right to Sue
Hamby filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) last September. After receiving a Notice of Right to Sue in May, she initiated the federal lawsuit within 90 days.
WNBA and Aces’ Response
The WNBA has stated that it is reviewing Hamby’s lawsuit. The Aces have remained silent on the matter, citing the ongoing litigation.
Hamby’s Return and Success
Despite the controversy, Hamby joined the Los Angeles Sparks in 2023 and played all 40 games in the regular season. She averaged 19.2 points and 10 rebounds, earning an All-Star selection and contributing to the bronze medal victory of the US 3×3 women’s basketball team at the Paris Olympics.
The Importance of the Case
Hamby’s lawsuit has brought attention to the issue of pregnancy discrimination in professional sports. It highlights the need for fair and equitable treatment of athletes who become pregnant and the importance of holding organizations accountable for discriminatory practices.
Conclusion
The outcome of Hamby’s lawsuit will have implications for the WNBA and professional sports as a whole. It is a case that tests the boundaries of maternity rights and challenges the prevailing workplace culture in athletics. As the legal process unfolds, it will be crucial to ensure justice prevails for Hamby and that the lessons learned from this case lead to a more inclusive and equitable environment for all athletes.
