Becky Hammon's careerlong 'underdog' mentality has helped defending champion Aces get back on track
Becky Hammon has had to prove she belongs throughout her basketball career
By MARK ANDERSON
Published - Jul 08, 2024, 11:45 AM ET
Last Updated - Jul 08, 2024, 11:45 AM EDT
HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Becky Hammon has had to prove she belongs among the best in basketball throughout her career.
She was a consensus All-American in 1999 at Colorado State but went undrafted that year. Though Hammon became a multiple WNBA All-Star she wasn’t initially invited to the U.S. Olympic training camp in 2008.
The mentality of having to earn respect helped drive Hammon to a Hall of Fame playing career, It continues to drive her as coach of the two-time defending WBA champion Las Vegas Aces.
“If you want to put me as an underdog, I'm perfectly comfortable in that role,” Hammon said. "I'm not somebody who has gotten here by luck. I've had to work. I'm not afraid to work. I enjoy working and I enjoy working hard.
