The WNBA decided to void the Las Vegas Aces’ first-round pick in the 2025 draft after an investigation found the franchise violated league regulations regarding benefits that were not allowed to players and established policies. in the workplace.
In the sanction, a two-game suspension of coach Becky Hammon, accused of incurring labor mistreatment, was agreed.
The league announced the sanctions Tuesday, saying the team’s rule violation involved truly impermissible promises of benefits during Aces player Dearica Hamby’s contract extension negotiations.
In addition, the lack of respect for the workplace, which was generated as a result of the comments that Becky Hammon made to Hamby about her pregnancy.
It’s worth noting that the Aces don’t have a 2024 first-round pick, due to a prior trade.
In relation to the case, the WNBA Players Association ruled on the matter and assured that the sanction of the league “does not hit the target”, and they consider that it is not appropriate.
“Where in this decision does this team or any other team in the league learn the lesson that respect in the workplace is the highest standard, and a player’s dignity cannot be manipulated?” release.
“This sanction is far from appropriate. While removing a future draft pick is significant, and has never been done in league history, it penalizes a future player, by removing an opportunity to compete for better salary,” he continues.
The WNBPA also stressed that it will support the player while considering that the league’s decision should take another possible course.
Hamby made his complaint public through an Instagram post, in which he affirms that the Aces board treated him “unprofessional and unethical, which has been traumatizing”, taking into account his pregnancy.
At the time, she did not specify which member of the organization made the derogatory comments against her.
The league proceeded to investigate the situation as well as the accusations of circumventing the salary cap. During the investigations, 33 interviews with people and the review of texts, emails and various documents were collected.
“It is critical that we uphold the values of integrity and fairness, which create a level playing field for our teams,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert.
“The Aces failed to comply with league rules and regulations and have been disciplined accordingly. We are also discouraged by the violation of our Respect in the Workplace policies and remain committed to ensuring enhanced training takes place and standards are followed across all WNBA teams. “, She sentenced.
With information from ESPN.
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