Hamby's Influential Role in Burrell's Growth as a Sparks Team Member
Rewritten Article:
The bond between Los Angeles Sparks' players, Dearica Hamby and Rae Burrell, is based on unwavering support and mentorship throughout their basketball journey. This duo, often hailed as the ultimate teammates, shares a unique friendship that goes beyond the court.
Whenever Hamby steps off the court or takes a timeout, she passes on her mantra to Burrell: "Stay ready." This advice rings true for Burrell, who plays behind two of the best guards in the league, making it challenging to secure consistent minutes. Despite the challenges, Hamby ensures Burrell never forgets the importance of being prepared—a lesson she learned during her own journey as a role player.
The turning point for their relationship happened during the 2021 Unrivaled three-on-three women's basketball league. As Vinyl Basketball Club slipped in a fourth-quarter lead against the Mist, burgeoning tension filled the air. Hamby regained the lead with a lightning-fast layup, and Burrell took over. She soared down the court for a stunning coast-to-coast score, masterfully maneuvering past defenders and nailing perfect floaters. Hamby contributed to three more scores that clinched the win for Vinyl, with her final pass to Burrell securing the game-winning basket.
"That winning play was just perfect," Burrell gushed. "I've been hitting her all game, and for her to return the favor, it was a special moment for me."
Their chemistry on the court is evident, and their friendship grew even stronger off it. Before joining the Sparks in 2023, Hamby was a member of the Las Vegas Aces, occasionally crossing paths with Burrell, a Las Vegas native. Initially, they weren't close, but things changed after Hamby was traded to the Sparks. They began carpooling, helping each other out with favors for the grueling four-hour drives to Vegas when only one was making the trip.
However, it was during the 2022 season that their friendship blossomed. Living three doors apart in team housing, the two spent an incredible amount of time together. They graced one another with home-cooked meals (Hamby's spaghetti and meatballs being a favorite), and Burrell baked cookies. This camaraderie was the foundation that carried over onto the basketball court, with Burrell loving to run picks with Hamby, who constantly communicated on defense and offense, always ready to guide her young teammate.
Burrell often refers to Hamby as her "mom" on the team, consistently seeking her advice. Hamby's role extends beyond a simple mentor, as she nurtures Burrell when needed and lights a fire under her when situations demand it. "The thing about Dearica," Burrell explained, "is she never stops talking. When I'm on the court with her, it's just great because she's always communicating what play she wants to run."
The bond between these two Sparks teammates has made them an invaluable asset to the team. Their friendship, rooted in mutual respect, stands the test of time and provides an everlasting source of inspiration for both. As they prepare for the upcoming WNBA season, the future looks bright for this formidable pair.
- Beyond their basketball camaraderie, Dearica Hamby and Rae Burrell share a bond that extends into California's cultural landscape, having lived together in team housing in Los Angeles during the 2022 season.
- In addition to their shared love for sports, Dearica Hamby and Rae Burrell are also passionate about embracing diverse cultures, as demonstrated by Hamby's frequent visits to Rae's hometown in Las Vegas when they were teammates in different franchises.
- In Los Angeles, the duo is not only making waves in the sports world, but also inspiring younger generations by promoting the WNBA and women's basketball in Californian cities, playing together with the hopes of bringing the WNBA championship to the Golden State.
