The WNBA community was rocked this season by the intense legal clash between star forward Dearica Hamby and her former team, the Las Vegas Aces. Hamby, an All-Star and champion, made headlines with her pregnancy discrimination lawsuit, which has ultimately led to major repercussions, including the firing of the Aces’ general manager (GM) and punishment for coach Becky Hammon.

From Sixth Woman of the Year to Legal Battle

Dearica Hamby’s journey with the Aces has been one of loyalty and triumph—until this year. In 2022, after helping the Aces secure the championship, Hamby signed a long-term deal with the franchise, one that reportedly included provisions for family support, such as housing and school accommodations for her children. However, shortly after signing, Hamby became pregnant but assured the team that she would be ready to play by the start of the 2023 season. This, she alleged, became the start of her troubles.

Coach Becky Hammon reportedly reacted negatively to Hamby’s pregnancy, allegedly suggesting that her pregnancy impacted the team’s plans and led to her eventual trade to the Los Angeles Sparks. Hamby claimed that in addition to being forced out, the Aces reneged on certain promised accommodations for her family. Following her complaints, the league imposed a fine on the Aces, docked them a draft pick, and suspended Hammon for multiple games.

Fans Divided, Players React

The fallout of the Hamby incident left fans and players divided. A’ja Wilson and Candace Parker stood by Hammon, while others refrained from voicing strong opinions, likely to avoid adding fuel to the ongoing controversy. The incident, however, didn’t just remain a talking point among fans; Hamby took things a step further by filing an official lawsuit.

Then, in a dramatic turn of events, the Aces GM was let go—a move many believe is linked directly to the Hamby dispute. In a celebratory tweet following the firing, Hamby posted, “What a beautiful day. Sun is out, the birds are chirping, and the sky is blue,” subtly hinting at her satisfaction with the GM’s departure.

Aces Future in Question

The Aces GM, who led the team through back-to-back titles, was also known for her sharp decisions, including drafting well in the later rounds, securing key players, and even bringing Tiffany Hayes out of retirement. Given her successful track record, the sudden firing surprised many. With changes in the front office, speculation now surrounds Hammon’s future with the team.

As the Aces regroup, they may face a roster rebuild as well. While A’ja Wilson remains the team’s anchor, other core players like Kelsey Plum and Chelsea Gray may have limited years left at the top of their game. Plum, in particular, could decide to move on, and though Jackie Young is entering her prime, Gray and Hayes may only have a short window to contribute significantly.

A “Rebuild” or a Reset?

In the face of these changes, the Aces might be looking at a temporary restructuring rather than a full rebuild. With the league’s free agency window opening in 2026, the Aces could potentially retain Wilson and Young while aiming to make a splash in the future market. As for next season, fans should perhaps brace for a more moderate approach as the team addresses any lingering controversy and refines its strategy.

The fallout from Hamby’s lawsuit has proven to be more than just a bump in the road; it has spurred a chain reaction that has shaken the Aces’ foundation. For fans and players alike, it remains to be seen how the team will navigate these challenges, balance internal changes, and re-establish a reputation that’s been somewhat tarnished by recent events.