Becky Hammon

Becky Hammon's career has been characterized by a series of trailblazing firsts in both the NBA and WNBA. Beginning in 2014, she served as the first full-time female assistant coach in a major American sports league with the San Antonio Spurs. The following year, she continued to challenge norms as the first female head coach in the NBA Summer League, where she also led her team to a title. By 2020, Hammon broke yet another barrier by becoming the first woman to act as an acting head coach during an NBA game. Beyond these groundbreaking roles, she also made a significant impact as a player, subsequently being inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023.

Hammon transitioned to the WNBA as the head coach of the Las Vegas Aces in 2021, where she continued her pattern of success. In her first year, she became the first rookie head coach to win a WNBA title, leading the Aces to victory in both 2022 and 2023. This significant achievement marked the first time a coach had won back-to-back titles in 20 years. In recognition of her leadership and strategy, Hammon was honored as the WNBA Coach of the Year in 2022. In addition to the Aces, her jersey number 25 was retired by the San Antonio Stars.

Hammon's influence extends beyond the court. As an advocate, she has been vocal in supporting causes such as calling for the release of Brittney Griner in 2022. Hammon's athletic prowess expands to the international stage as well, having represented the United States at the 1998 William Jones Cup, earning a gold medal, and playing for the Russian national team to secure a bronze medal at the 2008 Olympics. She was recognized for her participation in poker, attending the inaugural World Series of Poker Paradise event in 2023.