Dearica Hamby, a talented forward for the Los Angeles Sparks, owes much of her success in the WNBA to her family, especially her parents, Carla Hamby and Derrick Jones.
Dearica Marie Hamby was born in Marietta, Georgia, on November 6, 1993, and grew up in a close-knit family.
Her mother, Carla Hamby Pennyman, is Caucasian, and her father, Derrick Jones, is African American, giving Dearica a rich cultural heritage that she proudly embraces.
Alongside her two sisters, Chelsie and Desaraye, Dearica was raised in an environment filled with love, encouragement, and strong values.
Carla Is A Cherished Member Of The Hamby Household And Inspires Everyone Around Her
Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Carla graduated from Mount Holyoke College in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.
Her professional journey reflects her dedication and work ethic, qualities she passed down to her daughters.
After working for nine years at MBD Community Housing Corporation, Carla transitioned to a consulting role at HCDC for a year.
Since 2001, she has been the Property Manager for Atlanta Public Schools, where her commitment to community and education shines through.
Carla frequently shares heartfelt posts on social media, celebrating her daughter’s achievements both on and off the court.
Whether it’s a game-winning shot or a milestone in Dearica’s personal life, Carla is her biggest cheerleader.
Her warmth grows to her role as a grandmother, where she dotes on Dearica’s two children, Amaya and Legend, and remains a pillar of support for her husband and daughters.
Less is known about Dearica’s father, Derrick Jones, as he prefers to keep a low profile.
While details about his early life remain private, Derrick’s presence in family photos speaks to his role as a quiet but steady influence.
Together, Carla and Derrick provided Dearica with a cherished environment that allowed her to chase her dreams, from her early days playing basketball to her rise as a WNBA star.
Dearica’s parents have always been there, cheering her on through triumphs and challenges.
Growing up in Georgia, Dearica showed an early aptitude for basketball, and her parents were quick to nurture her passion.
They drove her to practices, attended her games, and instilled in her the importance of hard work and perseverance.
Their continuous support laid the groundwork for her rising career, which includes being drafted sixth overall by the San Antonio Stars in 2015 and earning the WNBA Sixth Woman of the Year award in 2019 and 2020.
Carla, in particular, has been vocal about her pride in Dearica’s strength.
Balancing a demanding career with motherhood is no small accomplishment, and Dearica’s ability to excel in both areas is a testament to the values her parents instilled.
In interviews, Dearica has spoken about how her family’s encouragement has helped her navigate the pressures of professional sports, including the emotional and physical toll of pregnancy and trade controversies.
Now, Dearica Is A Mom Who shows The Love And Care She Learned From Her Parents
In February 2017, while playing for the San Antonio Stars, Dearica welcomed her first child, Amaya Marie, with her husband, Alonzo Nelson-Ododa.
Six years later, on March 16, 2023, she gave birth to her second child, Legend Maree Scandrick.
Dearica has been open about the joys and challenges of motherhood, from the physical demands of pregnancy to the emotional weight of balancing her WNBA career.
Her return to the court after Legend’s birth was nothing short of amazing.
Just three weeks postpartum, Dearica joined the Los Angeles Sparks for training camp, defying expectations and showcasing her incredible resilience.
She went on to play in all 40 regular-season games in 2023, proving that motherhood and athletic excellence can coexist.
Dearica’s ability to juggle these roles reflects the strength she draws from her parents, who taught her to face challenges head-on.
Amaya, now 7, and Legend, 22 months, are the light of Dearica’s life.
Recently, the siblings posed for a heartwarming photo shoot with the Los Angeles Sparks, capturing their playful spirits and close bond.
Dearica often shares glimpses of her life as a mom, from cheering at Amaya’s school events to cuddling with Legend at home.
These moments humanize her fame, reminding fans that she’s not just a basketball player but a devoted mother and daughter.
Dearica leaned on her family for strength. Her parents’ continuous support and her love for her children gave her the courage to keep pushing forward.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In September 2023, Hamby filed a discrimination complaint, claiming the Aces traded her due to her pregnancy.
- Hamby and the US team won bronze medals in the 2024 Summer Olympics.
- She was drafted sixth overall in 2015 and played for the San Antonio Stars.
