“Bad, Unethical, Unprofessional” — Dearica Hamby Exposes Troubling Treatment After Pregnancy-Related Trade from Las Vegas Aces

1. The Trade That Sparked an Outcry

When WNBA star Dearica Hamby, a two-time champion and valuable veteran, was officially traded from the Las Vegas Aces to the Los Angeles Sparks on a recent Saturday, fans initially viewed it as routine business. But her post-trade Instagram statement revealed a far more troubling undercurrent: allegations of emotional manipulation and pregnancy discrimination.

Hamby, currently pregnant with her second child, framed her trade not as a business move, but a betrayal.

2. Her Accusations: Sham Promises, Character Attacks, and a Culture of Control

In her lengthy Instagram post, Hamby accused the Aces of repeatedly undermining her during her pregnancy:

Promising contract extensions to entice her back, then reneging.

Being pressured about her pregnancy plans under the guise of “team fit.”

Being labeled a “question mark,” accused of lacking commitment.

Being informed she had not used birth control—even when she declared she had no immediate plans to expand her family.

Being criticized for “not training seriously,” despite continuing workouts throughout pregnancy—even painful walking days.

She asserted:

“Being traded is part of the business. Being deceived, bullied, manipulated, and discriminated against is not.”
“I was attacked in my character and my professionalism… I was told I ‘did not keep my word’ because ‘nobody expects me to be pregnant for two more years.’”

Hamby laid bare the emotional cost:

“This has been traumatic.”

3. The Double Standard: Betrayal by a Team of Mothers

Hamby sharpened her critique:

“It is disgusting and nauseating to be treated this way by a mother-led organization that preaches family, empowerment, and womanhood.”

She framed the Aces as an organization that for years had professed support for female athletes and parents—only to turn on her when she announced her pregnancy.

Having just revealed her second pregnancy at a team celebration, the blow was especially personal.

4. Career Achievements and Stakes Raised

Hamby’s credentials are strong:

Sixth overall pick by the Aces in 2015.

Back-to-back WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year in 2019 and 2020.

Key contributor to the Aces’ 2022 championship, averaging 9.3 points and 7.1 rebounds this season.

She had worn the Aces uniform with pride—making her trade under such circumstances feel less professional and more punitive.

5. Pregnancy Discrimination in Sports: A Growing Conversation

Hamby’s story enters a national dialogue on pregnancy discrimination in sports. While leagues like the WNBA have improved maternity protections in their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)—such as paid parental leave and guaranteed contracts—many argue this case reveals a lingering bias.

Athletes in WNBA have protected mechanics to ensure players can start families without losing financial security. Hamby’s accusations suggest these rules exist in writing but perhaps not in spirit.

6. Responses and Broader Reactions

The Las Vegas Aces organization has not released a detailed public response, though staff reportedly deny her version of events. League sources have confirmed there is no ongoing WNBA investigation specifically tied to her allegations, but the situation has intensified scrutiny over team practices and support for pregnant players.

Fans, media outlets, and player advocates have rallied behind Hamby, citing her professionalism and raising broader questions about how even successful players can face stigma for motherhood.

7. From One Team to Another: Hamby’s Next Chapter

Now, with Hamby set to join the Sparks, many wonder what her future will hold:

Can she continue performing at high level while pregnant?

Will the Sparks embrace and support her fully during this season?

Might Hamby pursue systemic changes—through legal avenues or advocacy—to protect future generations of WNBA mothers?

Her move from Las Vegas may mark both personal liberation and the beginning of a leadership path off the court.

8. The Human Cost: A Tale of Trauma and Resilience

Hamby’s candid reflections speak to a central truth: even at the professional level, emotional trauma matters.

She described days when workouts induced pain, yet she pushed through—only to be later accused of a lack of dedication. The inconsistency between her lived reality and her organization’s treatment underscores the psychological toll it takes when an employer fails to understand a player’s humanity.

9. What Hamby’s Story Reveals about WNBA Culture

Even teams celebrated for embracing women’s empowerment may still harbor systemic dysfunction.

The gap between CBA protections and real-world practices can remain wide.

Trade decisions can carry emotional weight divergent from their business justifications—especially when made during pregnancy.

Hamby’s disclosures challenge not just her former team, but the entire league to examine where policy meets practice.

10. A Legacy Beyond Statistics

As Hamby embarks on her next narrative—pregnant, traded, and speaking out—her legacy evolves:

On court: champion, skillful, resilient.

Off court: courageous, truth-teller, advocate for mothers and women athletes.

Her statement may not undo the past—but it has cast a spotlight on needed reform. If nothing else, Hamby’s decision to break silence invites fans, organizations, and leagues to reflect: Does supporting female athletes include embracing and protecting their choices, including motherhood?