Dearica Hamby Biography: Dearica Marie Hamby born November 6, 1993 is an American professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Sparks in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
Dearica Hamby Biography
Marie Hamby, born on November 6, 1993, in Marietta, Georgia, is a professional basketball player who currently plays as a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA. Standing 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighing 189 pounds, Hamby has built an impressive career through her consistency and resilience over a decade-long tenure in the league. Despite taking breaks due to motherhood, her performance has remained strong, showcasing her dedication and adaptability in an increasingly competitive WNBA.
Dearica Hamby Biography 2025 Details
| Born | November 6, 1993 Marietta, Georgia, U.S. |
|---|---|
| Listed height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Listed weight | 189 lb (86 kg) |
| High school |
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| College | Wake Forest (2011–2015) |
| WNBA draft | 2015: 1st round, 6th overall pick |
| Drafted by | San Antonio Stars |
| Playing career | 2015–present |
| Category | Football Biographies |
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About Dearica Hamby
Dearica Marie Hamby is an American basketball player for the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women’s National Basketball Association.
Dearica Hamby Wiki
- Born: 6 November 1993 (age 31 years), Marietta, Georgia, United States
- Current teams: Los Angeles Sparks (#5 / Forward), United States of America
- Height: 1.9 m
- Dates joined: 2023 (Los Angeles Sparks), 2018 (Las Vegas Aces), 2015 (San Antonio Stars)
- Education: Wake Forest University (2011–2015), Norcross High School, Marietta High School
- 2023–present: Los Angeles Sparks
- League: WNBA
College Career
Hamby had a standout college career at Wake Forest. As a senior, she led the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in scoring with 20.3 points per game and ranked second in rebounding with 10.7 rebounds per game. Her junior season was one of the most impressive in program history, as she led the ACC in both scoring (22.0 points) and rebounding (11.0 rebounds) across 31 games—becoming the first player from Wake Forest to top both categories in a single season. Hamby finished her college career as Wake Forest’s all-time leader in both points (1,801) and rebounds (1,021).
Professional Career
Hamby was selected sixth overall in the 2015 WNBA Draft by the San Antonio Stars, who later became the Las Vegas Aces in 2018. season, Hamby averaged 11 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and nearly one steal per game. She tied the WNBA record for most double-doubles off the bench in a season with five and was named the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year—earning 41 of 43 votes.
That same day, during a do-or-die playoff game against the Chicago Sky, she delivered a highlight-reel moment with a game-winning three-pointer after stealing the ball with just 6.5 seconds remaining—a play later dubbed the “shot of the year” by the WNBA. Hamby earned her second consecutive WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award in 2020. On June 29, 2022, Hamby signed a multi-year contract extension with the Aces. She went on to help lead the team to a WNBA Championship that same year.
Early Life and Education
Dearica was born to Carla Hamby and Derrick Jones and spent her childhood in Marietta, Georgia. While she has maintained privacy about her early struggles, it is known that her competitive spirit was shaped during her high school years. She played at Marietta High School before transferring to Norcross High School, where she averaged 10 points and 8 rebounds per game and helped lead the team to a second straight 5A state title in 2010–11. Her promising talent earned her a spot at Wake Forest University, where her collegiate career flourished.
WNBA Career Overview
Hamby was drafted sixth overall by the San Antonio Stars in the 2015 WNBA Draft. When the franchise relocated and became the Las Vegas Aces in 2018, she remained with the team. Hamby earned the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year honors in 2019 and 2020. One of her most memorable moments came in the 2019 playoffs when she hit a game-winning three-pointer after a clutch steal—dubbed the “shot of the year.” she signed a multi-year contract extension with the Aces and helped lead them to a WNBA Championship. However, her time with the Aces ended on a controversial note.
After revealing her pregnancy, Hamby accused the team of mistreatment, leading to a WNBA investigation. As a result, head coach Becky Hammon was suspended for two games, and the Aces lost a 2025 draft pick for violating league policies. Hamby was traded to the Los Angeles Sparks in January 2023. Since joining the Sparks, she has had a career resurgence, delivering her best statistical season in 2024, averaging 17.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
Personal Life
Dearica is married to Alonzo Nelson-Ododa, a fellow basketball player. The couple has two children: Amaya, born in February 2017, and Legend, born in March 2023. Despite the challenges of parenting and professional sports, Hamby has continued to excel. She has shared that motherhood gave her a stronger sense of purpose and confidence, both on and off the court. Hamby is the daughter of Carla Hamby and Derrick Jones. She has two siblings, Chelsie and Desaraye. While details about her upbringing remain mostly private, her family has played a supportive role in her success.
Sponsorships and Endorsements
In December 2020, Hamby signed a deal with the Jordan Brand, joining other prominent WNBA stars. She expressed pride in being part of a movement shaping the future for young girls in basketball, including her own daughter.
Jersey and Merchandise
Hamby has consistently worn jersey number 5 throughout her WNBA career. While with the Aces, she sported their red-black and black-white color themes. Now with the Sparks, she represents the team in their signature purple and gold kits, available for fans via the official WNBA store.
How Many Rings Does Dearica Hamby Have?
Dearica Hamby has one WNBA Championship ring, earned in 2022 with the Las Vegas Aces. She played a role in helping her team secure the title in a 3-1 Finals series win over the Phoenix Mercury.
Dearica Hamby Net Worth 2025
As of 2025, Hamby’s estimated net worth is around $400,000, largely earned through her basketball salary and endorsements. She signed a one-year, $202,000 deal with the Sparks for the 2025 season. Here is a breakdown of her annual WNBA salaries:
| Year | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | Las Vegas Aces | $115,000 |
| 2020 | Las Vegas Aces | $117,000 |
| 2021 | Las Vegas Aces | $152,300 |
| 2022 | Las Vegas Aces | $152,800 |
| 2023 | Los Angeles Sparks | $169,000 |
| 2024 | Los Angeles Sparks | $189,000 |
| 2025 | Los Angeles Sparks | $202,000 |
FAQs
What is Dearica Hamby’s nickname?
The Sparks took to their official X account to give Hamby her flowers for posting back-to-back double-doubles while giving her a new nickname. “Double Double D,” the caption read.
Who is the father of Dearica Hamby’s baby?
Former NFL baller Orlando Scandrick and WNBA player Dearica Marie Hamby have welcomed their first child together. Hamby announced the news on her Instagram account, sharing a video of her newborn son. “Legend Maree Scandrick,” she captioned the post.
What is Dearica Hamby’s age in 2025?
Dearica Hamby was born on November 6, 1993, which makes her 31 years old in 2025.
How did Dearica Hamby perform after her second pregnancy?
After giving birth to her second child in March 2023, Dearica Hamby returned to the court and delivered her best statistical season in 2024, averaging 17.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game.
What college did Dearica Hamby attend?
Dearica Hamby attended Wake Forest University, where she became the school’s all-time leading scorer and rebounder.
Who is Dearica Hamby’s husband?
Dearica Hamby is married to Alonzo Nelson-Ododa, a professional basketball player who has played in international leagues including in Mexico, Portugal, and Denmark.
What shoe brand sponsors Dearica Hamby?
Dearica Hamby signed a sponsorship deal with the Jordan Brand in December 2020, joining a select group of WNBA players under the Nike-owned label.