History was made on Dec. 30, 2020 when Becky Hammon became the first woman to be the head coach in an NBA game. Following an argument with the referees, Head Coach Gregg Popovich was ejected from the game. With a simple “You got ‘em,” Hammon became the head coach for the rest of the game.

Hammon started coaching for the San Antonio Spurs in August 2014 after retiring from her position as a point guard for the San Antonio Stars. She became the second female assistant coach in the NBA, and the first full time female assistant coach. She was also the first female head coach of a summer league, and was acknowledged by Coach Popovich and team members for her talent and competitive spirit. 

“You’ve got to tip your hat to her, I pay attention to all those little things. She’s been here since I got here. I’ve been watching her talk to every single player, whether he was a veteran dude or a young dude. Just using her voice and her knowledge of the game,” said Spurs player Dejounte Murray.

“Obviously, it’s a big deal,” said Hammon when interviewed after the game. “It’s a substantial moment. I’ve been a part of this organization, I got traded here in 2007, so I’ve been in San Antonio and part of the Spurs and sports organization with the Stars and everything for 13 years. So I have a lot of time invested, and they have a lot of time invested in me, in building me and getting me better.”

After being ejected from the game, it took a while for Popovich to recognize the monumental occurrence. Popovich later said that Hammon deserved her position, and that she earned her position as assistant coach. He was also firm in his belief that there were other capable women who could be coaches, but that they were limited by societal stereotypes.

After the game, Los Angeles Lakers coach Frank Vogel acknowledged her talents.

“I’ve talked to her a bunch in coaches conferences and whatnot, and she really knows her stuff. Obviously, she’s here for a reason. She’s equipped. She’s intelligent. The guys have a great respect for her. And I think she’s going to be a head coach in this league someday,” Vogel said.

With Hammon’s coaching, the Spurs came very close to a victory. However, they ended the game 109-118, in favor of the Lakers. Despite the loss, Becky Hammon has paved the way for future female coaches to become head coach.

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