The Las Vegas Aces Reign Supreme: Becky Hammon’s Historic Journey to the 2025 WNBA Championship
The basketball world is buzzing with excitement as the Las Vegas Aces clinch the 2025 WNBA Championship title. But here’s where it gets even more inspiring: at the helm of this victory is none other than head coach Becky Hammon, whose journey from player to coach is nothing short of remarkable. This is her fourth season with the Aces, and she’s been an integral part of all three of their championship runs. Yet, her story goes far beyond this recent triumph—it’s a tale of resilience, innovation, and breaking barriers.
Let’s rewind a bit. The Las Vegas Aces weren’t always the powerhouse they are today. The franchise began its journey in 1997 as the Utah Starzz. After five seasons, they relocated to San Antonio, rebranding as the Silver Stars before simplifying to just the Stars. Fast forward to 2018, and the team made its final move to Las Vegas, where they’ve since carved out a legacy of dominance. But what’s truly fascinating is Hammon’s connection to this franchise’s history.
Hammon spent the latter half of her illustrious WNBA playing career in San Antonio, where she became a fan favorite. I was fortunate enough to witness her final game and attend her retirement ceremony—moments that still resonate with emotion. But retirement didn’t slow her down. In 2014, she seamlessly transitioned into coaching, joining Gregg Popovich’s staff as an assistant with the San Antonio Spurs. This move wasn’t just a career shift; it was a groundbreaking moment, as she became the first full-time female assistant coach in the NBA. And this is the part most people miss: her impact on the court as a coach has been as transformative as her playing career.
In 2022, Hammon took the bold step of leaving the Spurs to become the head coach of the Las Vegas Aces. The results? Nothing short of spectacular. Her leadership has propelled the team to new heights, culminating in this year’s championship win. But her legacy isn’t just about trophies. Hammon is the only WNBA player to have her jersey retired in two cities—her #25 hangs proudly in both San Antonio and Las Vegas, a testament to her enduring influence.
Congratulations to Becky Hammon and the Las Vegas Aces—a team and a coach who embody the spirit of perseverance and excellence. But here’s a thought-provoking question for you: As Hammon continues to shatter glass ceilings, what does her success mean for the future of women in coaching? Is she an outlier, or the beginning of a much-needed shift in the sports world? Share your thoughts below—let’s keep the conversation going. Remember, this is your community, a space to discuss, debate, and celebrate. Just keep it respectful, as per our community guidelines. Welcome to the thread—let’s dive in!
