WNBA Calls Dearica Hamby’s Mistreatment Claims ‘False’ in Filing to Dismiss Lawsuit

The WNBA and Las Vegas Aces are refuting the accusations made by basketball player Dearica Hamby.

Court records obtained by the Associated Press and Las Vegas Review-Journal show that both the WNBA and Aces have filed motions in Nevada District Court to dismiss the lawsuit brought forth by Hamby. She alleges that her former team discriminated against her upon discovering her pregnancy, and that the league failed to conduct a proper investigation.

The motions submitted on Wednesday, Sept. 11 argue that Hamby’s complaint, filed on Aug. 12 and seeking undisclosed damages to her reputation and income, does not provide grounds for relief, as reported by the Review-Journal.

The Aces, where Hamby previously played before being traded to the Los Angeles Sparks, have requested the court dismiss all of Hamby’s claims.

According to the AP, the WNBA states in their motion that Hamby is not employed by the league, thereby removing any responsibility on their part.

The league also denies Hamby’s claim that they did not take action initially, citing a two-game suspension without pay for coach Becky Hammon and the loss of the Aces’ 2025 draft pick as consequences of Hamby’s initial complaint against Hammon, who was accused of discrimination after learning of her pregnancy.

PEOPLE has reached out to the WNBA, Aces, and Sparks for comment.

During a postgame press conference on Aug. 19, Hammon addressed the allegations made against her just a week after Hamby filed the complaint of mistreatment. She emphasized her clean HR record over her 25-year career in the WNBA and NBA, stating that Hamby had not officially filed a complaint against her with the league or players’ union.

Stay updated on the latest stories – subscribe to PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter for the best content from celebrities to human interest stories.

Hamby’s lawsuit alleges that her relationship with the Aces deteriorated after she announced her pregnancy in 2022 during the team’s championship parade, and that she was traded to the Sparks because of her pregnancy, as reported by The Athletic. Her lawyers claim that the Aces “exiled” her for being pregnant.

This season, Hamby is a top contender for most improved player, averaging 16.9 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game for Los Angeles.