Becky Hammon Goes on Public Outburst About LV Aces Stars Being “Freaking Celebrities” After Shocking Loss

The Las Vegas Aces have not just been a basketball team recently; they have also become prominent figures in commercials, major endorsements, and public appearances. From A’ja Wilson starring in a Nike campaign for the Paris Olympics to Kelsey Plum appearing in a Skims ad, their influence goes beyond the basketball court. However, their coach, Becky Hammon, believes that their increasing celebrity status is impacting their performance on the court.

After suffering losses in Games 1 and 2 of the semifinals against the New York Liberty, Coach Hammon expressed her concerns in a postgame press conference. She criticized her players for being distracted by their fame, stating, “The whole league has been upset for the past eight months, and my players are busy with commercials and other celebrity endeavors.”

It’s important to note that these comments come from a coach who herself was a 6-time WNBA All-Star. She highlighted the difficulties of maintaining focus when under the spotlight, acknowledging that it can be distracting.

Coach Hammon concluded, “That’s why it’s challenging.” Despite starting the series confidently, the Aces struggled in the postseason, facing five consecutive losses to the Liberty. The team’s performance, including a 88-84 loss in Game 2 of the semifinals, has raised concerns about their ability to advance to the Finals.

Sabrina Ionescu led the Liberty with 24 points, while Wilson struggled to find her rhythm early on. The Aces’ shooting percentage was lower than the Liberty’s, resulting in back-to-back losses in the series. With the Liberty leading 2-0, the Aces face a tough challenge ahead.

Commercials Boost Aces’ Profile

According to Coach Hammon, the team’s defensive and communication skills have been lacking, potentially influenced by their star status. Despite their involvement in various campaigns and endorsements, players like A’ja Wilson and Jackie Young have maintained a balance between their off-court commitments and on-court performance.

Chelsea Gray and Kelsey Plum have also been featured in commercials, showcasing their skills both on and off the court. However, the question remains whether these external commitments have affected their focus on the game.

As they prepare for the next game on their home court, the Aces must overcome distractions and refocus to keep their title hopes alive.