There’s a rhythm to how Dearica Hamby moves—measured, fierce, unshakably present. Whether cutting to the basket or leading by example, her game has matured across seasons and moments that demanded more than just skill.
From Wake Forest standout to a two-time All-Star, her WNBA journey has never been about shortcuts. She has played roles both starring and supporting, winning titles and sparking momentum where others saw a dead end.
Behind the jersey is a life that rarely fits headlines—one marked by resilience, advocacy, and motherhood under the league’s brightest lights. With the Sparks, she’s not just building stats; she’s building something that lasts.
How old is Dearica Hamby?
Dearica Hamby was born on November 6, 1993, in Marietta, Georgia, making her 31 years old as of 2025. Now in her tenth WNBA season, her maturity on the court mirrors a career that’s still gaining momentum.
Dearica Hamby #5 of the Los Angeles Sparks during an 89-81 overtime loss to the Golden State Valkyries at Crypto.com Arena on June 09, 2025. (Source: Harry How/Getty Images)
How tall is Dearica Hamby?
At 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 189 pounds, Dearica Hamby brings a rare blend of size, athleticism, and agility to the forward position. On the court, that frame translates into rebounding prowess and defensive versatility—a hallmark of her game.
Dearica Hamby’s love life and family
Dearica Hamby’s off-court life is shaped by love, resilience and motherhood—elements that have defined her just as much as her achievements on the hardwood. She is the proud mother of two children: her daughter Amaya, born in 2017, and her son Legend, born in March 2023.
Her relationship with Alonzo Nelson‑Ododa—former college basketball player and reported husband—has also become part of her narrative. Nelson-Ododa, who played at the University of Richmond and Pittsburgh, shares a background in the sport, which adds depth to their connection.
Though they keep much of their relationship private, Hamby has spoken publicly about motherhood and the challenges she faced during her second pregnancy while still competing in the WNBA.
In fact, her experience during her pregnancy drew national attention when she alleged being mistreated by the Las Vegas Aces, who traded her shortly after. That moment sparked a broader conversation about how professional athletes—particularly mothers—are supported in elite sports environments.
What is Dearica Hamby’s jersey number?
Dearica Hamby has worn different numbers during her career, but with the Los Angeles Sparks, she’s settled into the number 5 jersey. In many ways, the number now feels synonymous with her evolution—from a spark off the bench to a leader in the locker room.
Dearica Hamby #5 of the Los Angeles Sparks looks on against the Las Vegas Aces at Crypto.com Arena on July 29, 2025. (Source: Luke Hales/Getty Images)
The jersey is more than just a number stitched onto her back; it’s become part of her visual identity on the court, present during defining moments of her career. Whether driving the lane, crashing the boards, or vocalizing leadership, she has made number 5 a symbol of grit and growth for the Sparks franchise.
Dearica Hamby’s career highlights
- 2015 – Drafted 6th Overall by San Antonio Stars: She entered the WNBA as the sixth overall pick in the 2015 draft after a standout collegiate career at Wake Forest. Her early seasons with the Stars laid the foundation for her identity as a high-energy, two-way forward.
- 2019 – Wins First WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year: Her impact off the bench was undeniable. She became the league’s top reserve, providing instant offense, defensive grit, and clutch minutes for the Las Vegas Aces (formerly San Antonio). The award marked her rise as a key rotational weapon.
- 2019 – Delivers Iconic Playoff Moment: In Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against Chicago, she pulled off one of the most unforgettable plays in WNBA postseason history: a steal followed by a deep, off-balance three to win the game. It became a career-defining moment.
- 2020 – Wins Second Consecutive Sixth Woman of the Year: Proving it was no fluke, she repeated as Sixth Woman of the Year, cementing her as the league’s premier bench player. Her versatility made her an anchor for the Aces’ second unit and a nightmare matchup for opponents.
- 2021 and 2022 – Named WNBA All-Star: Her evolution from a bench threat to a full-fledged star was made official with back-to-back All-Star selections, recognizing her consistency, efficiency, and leadership on both ends of the floor.
- 2022 – WNBA Champion with Las Vegas Aces: She helped lead the Aces to their first-ever WNBA championship. Though battling injury late in the season, her presence in the title run solidified her as a vital piece of the team’s winning formula.
- 2022 – Wins Commissioner’s Cup: In addition to the league title, she added the midseason Commissioner’s Cup trophy to her résumé, underscoring the Aces’ dominance and her integral role in their success.
- 2023 – Named FIBA AmeriCup MVP: Representing Team USA, she was named MVP of the 2023 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup, showcasing her ability to lead internationally with the same grit and production she brings to the WNBA.
- 2024 – Olympic Bronze Medalist in 3×3 Basketball (Paris): At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she expanded her legacy by helping Team USA secure a bronze medal in 3×3—a fast-paced, high-pressure format that suited her physical and tactical strengths.
- 2024 – WNBA All-Star (Third Selection): Back in peak form, she returned to the All-Star Game with the Los Angeles Sparks, demonstrating her ability to perform at the highest level in a new system and franchise.
- 2024 – Wins Kim Perrot Sportsmanship Award: Recognized not just for her play but for her character, she was honored for exemplifying respect, fairness, and leadership—qualities that define her presence on and off the court.
- 2024 – Finalist for WNBA Most Improved Player: In a season that saw her take on greater responsibility with the Sparks, she emerged as a finalist for Most Improved Player, proving that even a seasoned veteran can still elevate her game.
