NFL
It’s a new beginning for Dearica Hamby as she starts a new tenure with the Los Angeles Sparks. As she approaches her first season with the organization, Hamby is fresh off of a championship win with the Las Vegas Aces, as they defeated the Connecticut Sun in the 2022 WNBA Finals. Considering the Sparks are looking to re-emerge as playoff contenders, Hamby’s versatility will help the team improve in multiple ways.
First and foremost, I believe it’s important to address the situation regarding Hamby and the Aces’ organization. She was wrongfully discriminated against by the front office due to her pregnancy and as of today, the WNBPA is investigating the Aces front office after Hamby voiced her frustration against the organization.
The WNBA community loves Dearica Hamby. Not only because of her big personality but what she does on the floor. During her tenure with the Aces, Hamby quickly emerged as an All-Star and won sixth woman of the year twice. What stands out about Hamby is that she accepts her role with the team. She makes the most out of her situation and continues to thrive as a talent.
Playing under head coach Curt Miller will help Hamby continue to unleash her versatility. Over the past few years, Miller was able to help talents in Jonquel Jones, Alyssa Thomas, and others continue to develop into All-Star talents. Coaching a player like Hamby will help expand her game for the better of the team.
The beauty of Dearica Hamby is that she can be very effective without the ball. First, let’s discuss her defense. She’s very versatile on that end of the floor and can cover multiple positions. Hamby displays great footwork and agility while also having great size to contain any player on the floor. This past season, the Aces were one of the best defensive teams in the WNBA. While A’ja Wilson won Defensive Player of the Year, Hamby’s defensive intensity also played a pivotal role in their championship season.
On offense, Hamby’s movement is a joy to watch. Running through plays in Becky Hammon’s system, Hamby understood how to cut and find openings for easy opportunities to score. Her mentality to stay ready and anticipate the ball being in her hands is what allows her to be effective. Preparing to play alongside great passers in Los Angeles will allow Hamby to continue her high efficiency and allow more flow in the offense with her ability to cut to the basket alongside her floor spacing.
It was a tough decision to trade away former center Amanda Zahui B as she was a fan favorite and a joy to have on the roster. However, Zahui B does not provide the same versatility that Dearica Hamby brings to the table. No, Hamby is not a superstar by any means but can be a game-changer for the Sparks moving forward. Los Angeles needs to return to playoff contention this season. They were close the past few years but couldn’t finish strong down the stretch of the season. Hamby’s championship experience will allow her to be a reliable force in Los Angeles for years to come.
