On December 30, 2020, Becky Hammon made history by becoming the first woman to serve as a head coach in an NBA regular-season game. When San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich was ejected during the second quarter of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, he turned to Hammon and said, “You got ’em.” This moment was not just a routine coaching decision; it was a significant step forward in the fight for gender equality in professional basketball.
Hammon’s appointment as interim head coach was met with admiration and respect from her peers. Sacramento Kings assistant coach Lindsey Harding expressed that while the moment was historic, it was not surprising—Hammon had been prepared for such a responsibility. Similarly, Charmin Smith, head coach of the Cal women’s basketball team, saw it as a natural progression in Hammon’s career, noting her extensive experience and the support she received from Popovich and the Spurs organization.
Becky Hammon (NBA)Becky Hammon’s Milestone Signals Progress for Women in NBA Coaching Roles
Golden State Warriors assistant coach Lindsay Gottlieb described the moment as deeply moving. Seeing Hammon take charge was a powerful reminder of the barriers that still exist for women in coaching roles. For many female coaches, Hammon’s milestone was a source of inspiration, reinforcing the idea that leadership in basketball should be based on merit rather than gender.
Natalie Nakase, an assistant coach for the Agua Caliente Clippers, emphasized the NBA’s progressive stance compared to other sports leagues. She credited NBA Commissioner Adam Silver for his commitment to diversity and inclusion, which extends beyond coaching roles to the front office and officiating positions. Hammon’s moment, Nakase argued, was not just a personal achievement but an indicator of the league’s evolving culture.
Teresa Weatherspoon, an assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans and a former teammate of Hammon’s in the WNBA, highlighted Hammon’s journey of resilience. Passed over by major college programs and undrafted in the WNBA, Hammon built her career through sheer determination. She turned a training camp invite with the New York Liberty into a stellar 16-year professional career. Her story is a testament to perseverance and self-belief, qualities that have now positioned her as a trailblazer in the NBA.
Despite Hammon’s credentials, gender bias remains a significant challenge in the coaching profession. Charmin Smith pointed out that men frequently coach women’s basketball teams without facing scrutiny, while women struggle to get opportunities in men’s leagues. Lindsey Harding noted that many NBA coaches lack high-level playing experience, yet their qualifications are rarely questioned. Women, on the other hand, often face heightened scrutiny, even when they possess superior résumés.
Becky Hammon (NBA)Breaking Barriers as Women Redefine Coaching in a Male-Dominated Basketball World
Harding compared Hammon’s journey to that of Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra, who climbed the ranks from a video coordinator role. She expressed hope that one day, women who did not play professionally could also rise through the coaching ranks. Natalie Nakase echoed this sentiment, arguing that coaching ability should be determined by knowledge and passion for the game rather than gender or playing experience.
Nakase also pointed out that players and fellow coaches can quickly recognize a coach’s expertise, regardless of gender. In a sport where credibility is key, coaches must prove themselves through their knowledge and ability to improve their players. She recalled advice from a fellow coach who said players can quickly detect insincerity, reinforcing the idea that competence—not gender—should dictate leadership roles.
Many female coaches acknowledge that they are frequently reminded of their gender at work. Charmin Smith highlighted the dual challenges of being both a woman and a Black coach in a historically male-dominated industry. Harding shared the simple but telling example of having to announce her entrance into locker rooms. However, Weatherspoon takes a different approach, stating that she doesn’t think about gender when coaching—she simply sees herself as a basketball professional.
Despite Hammon’s reluctance to be defined by her gender, history will remember her as a pioneer. Each step she takes toward becoming a full-time NBA head coach is closely watched and celebrated. While she may not always seek the spotlight, her achievements inspire future generations of female coaches and athletes. As Weatherspoon put it, Hammon’s story is about more than personal success—it is about opening doors for others and proving that leadership in basketball transcends gender.
