Hammon Makes History as Head Coach in Spurs Preseason Game

Becky Hammon

Sunday's 122 to 100 San Antonio Spurs preseason victory over the Denver Nuggets at the AT&T Center was more than just another tune up...some history was made on the sidelines, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.

Spurs Assistant Coach Becky Hammon was the head coach in the first half of the game, believed to be the first time a woman has ever been the head coach of an NBA team during a pre-season game.  Hammon has routinely coached the Spurs during Summer League competition.

After the game, Hammon said it was a wonderful opportunity.

"Its an amazing opportunity for me," she said.  "We are a teaching program and that comes directly from (Coach Gregg) Popovich.  For him to give us this opportunity and letting the guys hear a different voice."

"Hammon did a good job, as the Spurs dominated on offense, led by LaMarcus Aldridge.

"That's what his tree is all about, it's mentoring and letting people come around," she said.  "Its a nice opportunity to go out there and hold a clipboard and be in the action."

Hammon was the first full time paid Assistant Coach in the NBA when she was hired by the Spurs in 2015.  Hammon is also set to be inducted into the San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame as part of the 2018 class.

After the game, Hammon also joked about being the first Spurs head coach to wear high heels on the sideline.

"My feet hurt, though," she joked.

Photo: Getty Images


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