With the Sparks surging toward the playoffs, Dearica Hamby's clutch plays are driving the run. Her one-year deal now looks like a wager Los Angeles may have to double down on.
In the closing moments against Seattle, Dearica Hamby drove into the lane for a layup that secured a 94-91 win. The basket capped a comeback from 16 points down and underlined her role in the Sparks' recent form.
Hamby, 31, is in her 11th WNBA season and third with Los Angeles. She has been the team's leader in scoring and rebounding since arriving in 2023, building on a career that includes two All-Star selections, a league title and international honours.
At 6ft 3in, she combines size with mobility, enabling her to be effective in both offensive and defensive roles. In 2024, she led the league in rebounds per game and double-doubles, and she has maintained strong output this year.
Hamby is currently on a one-year contract worth $202,000, signed in June 2024. The deal allows both player and club to review their options at season's end.
Sparks building momentum
The Sparks have moved to ninth in the WNBA standings after winning eight of their past ten games. Four of those victories have come against teams in current playoff positions, including a narrow win over second-placed New York Liberty last month.
Kelsey Plum has provided scoring and playmaking alongside Hamby, while head coach Lynne Roberts has adapted line-ups to suit opponents. In the Seattle win, Hamby contributed 19 points and seven rebounds, with support from Azurá Stevens, Cameron Brink and Rae Burrell.
The recent run coincides with Brink's return from injury, adding depth to the roster. Roberts has spoken about the importance of flexibility in tactics, with smaller line-ups used to counter taller opponents.
Dearica Hamby putting in work with Sparks Assistant coach @CoachBuncik #Sparks pic.twitter.com/L6KYEZLDWN
— Motivated Purpose Group (@MPGROUP__) August 13, 2025
Career shaped by consistency
Hamby's career began in 2015 as the sixth overall draft pick for San Antonio. She later won two Sixth Woman of the Year awards with Las Vegas, and was part of their 2022 championship team. She has also represented the United States internationally, earning MVP honours at the 2023 FIBA AmeriCup and a bronze medal in 3×3 basketball at the 2024 Olympics.
Off the court, Hamby is a mother of two and has spoken about balancing family life with professional sport. She has been recognised for her leadership and sportsmanship, winning the Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award in 2024.
In Los Angeles, she wears the number 5 jersey and has become a key figure in the team's on-court structure. Her performance this season will be central to the Sparks' playoff prospects and to any discussions on extending her stay beyond 2025.
CLEAN UP ON AISLE HAMBYYY 🧹💪
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 13, 2025
Second-chance points in the rivalry showdown for Dearica Hamby.
NYL-LAS I League Pass I WNBA Rivals Week presented by @Ally pic.twitter.com/uuhYEblTP8
Looking ahead
With several games left in the regular season, Hamby's output will remain important for the Sparks' bid to move into a playoff position. Her current contract structure means decisions on her future will follow the conclusion of the campaign.
For now, the focus remains on results. The Sparks face strong opposition in the closing stretch, including another meeting with New York. They're sure to rely on the contributions of their experienced players to maintain momentum.
Dearica Hamby's role in that effort will be closely watched, both for its immediate impact on the standings and for what it may mean for her place in Los Angeles beyond this season.
