Los Angeles, CA – Sparks forward Dearica Hamby is taking legal action against the WNBA and her former team, the Aces, over allegations that she faced discriminatory treatment due to her pregnancy. The lawsuit, filed in Nevada, arrives after more than a year since her initial complaint sparked a league investigation, resulting in fines and disciplinary actions against the Aces.
Hamby, who recently represented the U.S. in the 3×3 basketball event at the Paris Olympics and secured a bronze medal, claims she has faced “repeated acts of retaliation, intimidation, and discrimination” since her pregnancy became known. This lawsuit seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages, potentially setting a significant precedent in sports law and labor relations.
Before a game against the Chicago Sky, Hamby remarked on her ongoing lawsuit, indicating her readiness and the support that bolsters her confidence in her case. She believes that her actions may help shift perspectives and policies regarding pregnancy protections and respecting women athletes’ rights.
Key points in the dispute include the handling of her pregnancy announcement, which was made public during the Aces’ championship parade. Following the announcement, Hamby alleges changes in how she was treated by the coaching staff and management. Specifically, the suit claims Aces coach Becky Hammon labeled her as a “question mark” in terms of her commitment, questioning her truthfulness about her pregnancy during contract agreements.
In 2022, Hamby signed an extension with the Aces, and according to her, learned of her pregnancy soon after, a timeline which the coaching staff reportedly disputed. The suit charges that despite a clear timeline of events, the league failed to take corrective action. Subsequently, Hamby was traded to the Sparks, an move she views as part of the alleged retaliation.
The WNBA’s collective-bargaining agreement recognizes the need for maternity leave with full pay, treating pregnancy akin to a player’s illness or injury, which mandates that teams be informed of a player’s pregnancy before signing or renewing contracts. This rule sits at the heart of Hamby’s contractual dispute with the Aces.
The league’s response to Hamby’s initial complaint led to sanctions against the Aces, including revoking a first-round draft pick and suspending Coach Hammon for two games. The league and the Aces emphasized their commitment to maintaining high standards and respecting workplace policies.
This ongoing legal challenge highlights potential gaps in the current CBA, particularly around how pregnancy is addressed. As the CBA nears its expiration, with an option for renegotiation in November, this case could significantly influence new negotiations, specifically in terms of better protecting the rights and conditions of pregnant athletes.
Hamby continues to maintain her focus on basketball amidst legal battles, considering the court her “safe space.” Returning to Las Vegas for an upcoming game against her former team, Hamby expressed confidence in her relationship with the city and its fans, demonstrating her resilience and dedication to her sport.
This lawsuit not only underscores the challenges women athletes face but also pushes for necessary conversations and improvements in professional sports’ handling of personal and contractual commitments, especially regarding maternity and health rights.