Becky Hammon’s careerlong ‘underdog’ mentality has helped defending champion Aces get back on track

HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — Becky Hammon has had to prove she belongs among the best in basketball throughout her career.

She was a consensus All-American in 1999 at Colorado State but went undrafted that year. Though Hammon became a multiple WNBA All-Star she wasn’t initially invited to the U.S. Olympic training camp in 2008.

The mentality of having to earn respect helped drive Hammon to a Hall of Fame playing career, It continues to drive her as coach of the two-time defending WBA champion Las Vegas Aces.