WNBA's Greatest Players in History: Becky Hammon

• 6-time WNBA All-Star (2003, 2005–2007, 2009, 2011)
• WNBA assists leader (2007)
• First female full-time assistant coach in NBA history (San Antonio Spurs, 2014-2021)

Becky Hammon was an undersized point guard who became one of the most impactful players in WNBA history through her prolific scoring, playmaking, and leadership on the court. Her groundbreaking coaching career has further cemented her legacy in basketball.

Overview

Undrafted out of Colorado State in 1999, the 5'6" Hammon defied expectations to become a WNBA star over her 16-year playing career. Known for her three-point shooting and court vision, Hammon was a six-time All-Star who led the league in assists in 2007. After retiring in 2014, she made history as the first full-time female assistant coach in the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs.

Career Snapshot

Hammon spent her first eight seasons with the New York Liberty, developing into an All-Star calibre player. In 2007, she was traded to the San Antonio Silver Stars where she had her most productive years. Hammon averaged a career-high 19.5 points per game in 2009 and made four All-Star teams with San Antonio. She retired in 2014 as one of the WNBA's all-time leaders in assists and three-pointers made.

Playing Style

Despite her small stature, Hammon was a crafty scorer with deep shooting range. She had excellent court vision and was adept at running the pick-and-roll. Hammon's high basketball IQ and leadership made her the floor general for her teams. While not an elite athlete, she used changes of pace and direction to create space and opportunities for herself and teammates.

Why Becky Hammon is on our list

Hammon's impact on women's basketball extends far beyond her impressive playing statistics. As one of the WNBA's first superstar guards, she helped grow the league's popularity in its early years. Her transition to coaching broke gender barriers at the highest levels of men's professional basketball. Hammon's success as both player and coach has made her one of the most influential figures in basketball history.

Five Fast Facts

1. Undrafted out of college but went on to become a 6-time WNBA All-Star
2. First female full-time assistant coach in NBA history with the San Antonio Spurs
3. Led WNBA in assists in 2007 with 5.0 per game
4. Made 829 three-pointers in her WNBA career, ranking her among the all-time leaders
5. Named head coach of the WNBA's Las Vegas Aces in 2022, winning the championship in her first season

Career Highlights Timeline

1999: Signs with New York Liberty as an undrafted free agent

2003: Named to her first WNBA All-Star team

2007: Traded to San Antonio Silver Stars, leads league in assists

2011: Selected to her sixth and final WNBA All-Star team

2014: Retires from WNBA, joins San Antonio Spurs as assistant coach

2015: Becomes first woman to serve as head coach in NBA Summer League

2020: Becomes first woman to serve as acting head coach in an NBA regular season game

2022: Named head coach of WNBA's Las Vegas Aces, leads team to championship

Becky Hammon's journey from undrafted player to WNBA star to pioneering NBA coach exemplifies her determination and basketball acumen. Her ongoing success as a coach continues to break barriers.