It was only four years ago that the San Antonio Spurs hired Becky Hammon, who then became the first woman assistant coach in men’s American sports history. Before becoming an assistant coach in the NBA Hammon was already a WNBA legend. Now it may only be a matter of time before Becky Hammon becomes an NBA head coach.
Milwaukee Bucks
This summer Hammon could shatter another glass ceiling by becoming the first female NBA head coach. The Milwaukee Bucks have asked the Spurs for permission to interview Hammon over the summer. The Bucks are planning on interviewing around ten candidates, and it is still unclear if Hammon is the Bucks’ top candidate.
The Bucks have expressed interest in bringing Hammon into the front office before. Last summer the team had contacted Hammon about the team’s general manager opening, despite her having no front office experience. However, another candidate was chosen, and Hammon went back for a fourth season with the Spurs.
San Antonio Spurs
While recovering from a torn ACL, Hammon interned with the Spurs during the 13-14 NBA season. In 2014 Hammon announced her retirement from the WNBA and joined the Spurs’ staff full time. After winning the 2015 NBA summer league, discussions began about when Hammon would become the NBA’s first female head coach.
Hammon has become one of Spurs head coach Greg Popovich’s most trusted assistants. The rest of Popovich’s staff is full of assistants that will most likely all be considered for head coaching openings this summer. The staff includes former players, intern coaches, and former European league head coaches.
Hammon has had openings to walk away from the Spurs before. In the past, she has been linked to the men’s head coaching position at her alma mater, Colorado State. She reportedly also considered taking over the University of Florida’s women’s basketball program. However, she decided to turn down both offers and continue to work for the Spurs.
Hammon’s work has been highly respected even by people outside of the Spurs. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said, “I think she should be a candidate for any teams that do have openings.”
