Las Vegas to Los Angeles: Dearica Hamby’s Next Chapter in the WNBA
Dearica Hamby is an accomplished American professional basketball player known for her versatility, athleticism, and impact on both ends of the court. As a prominent figure in the WNBA, she has garnered recognition for her skill, work ethic, and contributions to her team’s success.
Dearica Hamby : Profile
- Full Name: Dearica Marie Hamby
- Date of Birth: November 6, 1993
- Birthplace: Marietta, Georgia, USA
- Height: 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters)
- Weight: 189 pounds (86 kilograms)
Dearica Hamby was born and raised in Marietta, Georgia. She developed an interest in basketball at an early age and quickly established herself as a standout player. Hamby attended Norcross High School in Norcross, Georgia, where she excelled in basketball and earned recognition as one of the top players in the state.
College Career at Wake Forest
Hamby went on to play college basketball at Wake Forest University from 2011 to 2015. During her time with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, she became the school’s all-time leading scorer, amassing over 1,800 points. Hamby was known for her ability to score in a variety of ways, her rebounding prowess, and her tenacity on defense.
In her senior season, she averaged a double-double, showcasing her dominance in both scoring and rebounding. Hamby’s outstanding college career earned her numerous accolades, including All-ACC honors.
WNBA Career
- Draft Year: 2015
- Draft Round: 1st Round
- Draft Pick: 6th overall by the San Antonio Stars (now the Las Vegas Aces)
Dearica Hamby was selected by the San Antonio Stars with the 6th overall pick in the 2015 WNBA Draft. After the team relocated and became the Las Vegas Aces, Hamby continued to develop her game and emerged as a key player for the franchise.
Notable Achievements and Playing Style
- WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year: Hamby won the prestigious WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award twice, in 2019 and 2020. This award recognized her exceptional contributions off the bench, where she provided a significant spark for the Aces.
- “The Hamby Heave“: One of the most iconic moments in WNBA history, Hamby gained widespread recognition during the 2019 WNBA Playoffs for what became known as “The Hamby Heave.” In a crucial playoff game against the Chicago Sky, she made an incredible half-court shot in the final seconds, securing a win for the Aces and propelling them to the next round.
- Versatility: Hamby is known for her versatility, playing both forward positions effectively. Her ability to guard multiple positions, rebound, and contribute offensively makes her a valuable asset to any team. She’s also recognized for her energy, intensity, and leadership on the court.
Husband and Personal Life
Dearica Hamby is married to Alonzo Nelson-Ododa, a professional basketball player. Alonzo played college basketball for the University of Richmond and the University of Pittsburgh. He has also played professionally overseas. The couple shares a love for basketball, which is a significant part of their relationship. They have a daughter named Amaya, who was born in 2017.
Recent Developments
In 2023, Dearica Hamby was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks, marking a new chapter in her career. The move came after a successful tenure with the Las Vegas Aces, where she had become a fan favorite and a central figure in the team’s success.
Impact and Legacy
Dearica Hamby’s journey in the WNBA is marked by her relentless work ethic, clutch performances, and ability to rise to the occasion. Her contributions to the game, both as a player and a role model, continue to inspire young athletes. As she continues her career with the Los Angeles Sparks, fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate the next chapters in her already impressive career.
for more : comingglobe.com/Alex-highsmith