Las Vegas Aces part ways with GM

The Las Vegas Aces are undergoing significant changes in their front office, including the appointment of a new general manager.

On Saturday, the team announced the departure of GM Natalie Williams as part of a major organizational restructuring. This decision follows the Aces’ consecutive WNBA championships in 2022 and 2023, as well as a semifinal appearance in 2024. Unfortunately, their quest for a three-peat was halted this season by the New York Liberty.

Williams assumed the GM position in 2022 and played a key role alongside head coach Becky Hammon in leading one of the league’s most successful teams.

Her contract ended after the 2024 season and was not renewed by the team.

Williams issued a statement through the team after the announcement:

“It has been a privilege to serve as general manager of the Las Vegas Aces,” said Williams. “Winning two WNBA championships with this amazing group of players and staff has been a dream come true. I am grateful to [owner] Mark Davis and the Aces Organization for the incredible opportunity to guide this franchise. I am passionate about the WNBA and am excited for what the future holds.”

From a basketball standpoint, parting ways with a GM who contributed to building one of the top teams in the league could be viewed as surprising. However, amidst the Aces’ on-court success, there have been some off-the-court issues that led to a rocky tenure.

The league is currently investigating the Aces for potential salary cap violations, and the organization is also facing legal action from former player Dearica Hamby.

In August, Hamby filed a lawsuit against the Aces, alleging discrimination and retaliation for her pregnancy. Hamby was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks, with the Aces citing roster strategy as the reason for the move to make way for Candace Parker.

Ultimately, Hammon was suspended for two games without pay by the WNBA, and the Aces were docked a first-round draft pick for breaching league and team workplace policies.

Despite the challenges, Las Vegas will return next season with one of the league’s strongest teams, providing the incoming general manager with an immediate contender to work with.