Introduction
Becky Hammon, a former basketball player and current NBA coach, is known for breaking barriers in the male-dominated world of basketball. But aside from her impressive career, she is also a devoted mother to her two children: a son named Andrew and a daughter named Olivia.
Early Life and Career
Becky was born on March 11, 1977, in Rapid City, South Dakota. She grew up playing basketball with her siblings and started her college career at Colorado State University. She was later drafted by the New York Liberty in 1999 and played in the WNBA for 16 seasons before retiring in 2014.
Transition to Coaching
After her retirement, Becky transitioned to coaching and became the first female full-time assistant coach in the NBA when she joined the San Antonio Spurs in 2014. She then made history again in 2020 when she became the first woman to lead an NBA team as head coach during a regular-season game.
Raising Kids as a Single Mother
Divorce and Custody Battle
In 2013, Becky went through a divorce with her ex-husband, which left her as a single mother to her two young children. She faced a custody battle, which she won, and has since been raising her kids on her own.
Managing Work-Life Balance
As a coach, Becky has a demanding schedule, which includes traveling for games and spending long hours at practices. However, she manages to balance her work and personal life by prioritizing her children and making sure to spend quality time with them.
Support System
Becky also credits her support system, which includes her family, friends, and fellow coaches, for helping her navigate the challenges of being a single mother and a coach. They provide emotional and practical support, which allows her to focus on her career while also being a present and attentive parent.
Teaching Her Kids Life Lessons Through Basketball
Introducing Her Kids to Basketball
Becky’s love for basketball has rubbed off on her children, who have grown up watching her play and coach. She has also introduced them to the sport and encourages them to play and develop their skills.
Teaching Perseverance and Hard Work
Through basketball, Becky teaches her children important life lessons, such as perseverance and hard work. She believes that the discipline and determination required to succeed in sports can be applied to other areas of life.
Being a Role Model
Becky is also a role model for her children, showing them that women can succeed in male-dominated fields and that being a working mother is possible. She hopes to inspire her children to chase their dreams and not let gender roles or stereotypes hold them back.
Tips for Other Working Mothers
Find a Support System
Becky’s advice for other working mothers is to find a support system, whether it’s family, friends, or other working mothers. Having people who can provide emotional and practical support is crucial for managing the demands of work and motherhood.
Make Time for Your Kids
Becky also emphasizes the importance of making time for your children and being present when you are with them. Quality time spent with your children can help strengthen your bond and make up for the time spent away from them.
Don’t Feel Guilty
Lastly, Becky advises working mothers not to feel guilty about pursuing their careers and passions. It’s important to remember that being a working mother is a choice and that you can still be a loving and attentive parent while also pursuing your goals.
Conclusion
Becky Hammon’s life as a mother and coach is an inspiration to many. She has shown that it’s possible to balance a successful career with being a devoted parent, and that women can break barriers in male-dominated fields. Her dedication to her children and her sport serves as a reminder that hard work, perseverance, and a strong support system can help you achieve your goals.