Los Angeles Sparks forward Dearica Hamby has etched her name in Unrivaled history by becoming the first player to score 40 points in a game within the league, achieving this remarkable feat in just 17 minutes of play, shooting an impressive 16 for 23 from the field. In addition to her scoring prowess, Hamby also recorded 10 rebounds, four of which were offensive, along with two assists, leading the Vinyl Club to a decisive 89-66 victory over the Hive Club.
This triumph marks the Vinyl’s first win of the season, bringing their record to 1-2, while the Hive remains without a victory at 0-3. Supporting Hamby’s outstanding performance were teammates Rhyne Howard with 18 points, Erica Wheeler who contributed 14 points, and Courtney Williams adding 12 points. For the Hive, the leading scorers included Sonia Citron and Monique Billings, both scoring 17 points, along with Kelsey Mitchell who added 15 points and Ezi Magbegor with 12.
Reflecting on her impressive game, Hamby credited her team’s ball movement for her scoring success. “We always talk about how we have a really special group, where everybody can score the ball at a high level. Tonight, the pick-and-roll was just there… I finish well at the basket,” she expressed.
Vinyl head coach Theresa Weatherspoon lauded Hamby’s contribution to the team’s dynamics, commenting on her ability to create opportunities for others. “She actually creates those things that are happening on the floor, because she’s the ultimate teammate… she has great vision,” Weatherspoon stated.
The second season of Unrivaled, co-founded by stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, features many top players from the WNBA, including the likes of Paige Bueckers and Kelsey Plum. At 32 years old, Hamby is enjoying a career resurgence, building on her successful WNBA tenure where she averaged 18.4 points and shot 57.2% last season, both personal bests. A three-time All-Star and two-time Sixth Woman of the Year, Hamby is currently the third-leading scorer in Unrivaled, trailing only Chelsea Gray, who averages 31.7 points per game.
Coach Weatherspoon remains optimistic about Hamby’s future performances, stating, “She’s added a lot to her game. She’s incredibly confident. So of course, she’s going to have a night like this — and many nights to come.” Hamby’s achievements are not only a testament to her skill but also serve as an inspiration for aspiring basketball players, showcasing the vibrancy of women’s sports today.