Sun May 18 22:30:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Judge Dismisses Part of Dearica Hamby’s Lawsuit Against WNBA, Allows Claims Against Aces to Proceed**

LAS VEGAS – A federal judge has dismissed claims against the WNBA in Los Angeles Sparks forward Dearica Hamby’s lawsuit, but ruled that her allegations against the Las Vegas Aces concerning alleged discrimination and retaliation due to her pregnancy can move forward.

Hamby filed the lawsuit in August, accusing the Aces of mistreatment that led to her trade to the Sparks in January 2023. The WNBA and Aces subsequently filed motions to dismiss.

U.S. District Judge Andrew P. Gordon determined that Hamby failed to sufficiently prove the WNBA failed to adequately investigate her claims against the Aces or that they unfairly failed to renew her league marketing contract. These claims were dismissed with prejudice.

A WNBA spokesman referred to Commissioner Cathy Engelbert’s previous comments on the matter.

However, Judge Gordon ruled that Hamby presented enough evidence to proceed with her discrimination claim and portions of her retaliation allegations against the Aces.

Hamby, a multi-time All-Star and former Sixth Player of the Year for the Aces, averaged career highs of 17.3 points and 9.2 rebounds last season.

The Aces are also currently under investigation by the WNBA regarding a controversial sponsorship deal with the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, offering players significant monthly payouts. Commissioner Engelbert stated the investigation is ongoing and being handled by an external law firm, noting, “I think there’s a lot of document requests and things like that, so it takes time. Nothing to report at this time.”

Read More