Quotes about new Spurs assistant Becky Hammon

The Associated Press

Quotes about Becky Hammon, who was hired by the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday as the NBA’s first full-time female assistant coach.

“That’s pretty unbelievable, talk about opening opportunities for people down the line, for her to be able to do that, especially with the Spurs, a place where it’s not easy to get in. (Spurs coach Gregg) Popovich has a tight crew up there. He’s got a good one because Becky knows the game really well, she’s a really avid worker, she’s going to put everything into it. She’s always going to be prepared, always going to be ready.” — Phoenix Mercury star Diana Taurasi.

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“On behalf of the WNBA, I want to congratulate Becky on today’s announcement. Voted one of the WNBA’s Top 15 Greatest Players, Becky is a true leader both on and off the court. Her great knowledge of and passion for the game will be an asset to the San Antonio Spurs when she assumes her role as an assistant coach following her retirement from the WNBA.” — WNBA President Laurel J. Richie.

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“I know she’ll do a great job for the Spurs, and I know the Spurs will be benefited by her presence. I’m just so happy and thrilled — I love seeing people I’ve been involved with have an opportunity in life to have these types of experiences. This one is unique. She’s ready for it.” — San Antonio Stars coach Dan Hughes.

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“Give credit to Gregg Popovich and the coaching staff, and certainly the San Antonio organization. But it’s nothing new. They know what kind of player she is, they know what kind of person she is, they know her ability to coach the game. They wouldn’t have hired her if she wasn’t qualified, so to me it’s got nothing to do with gender. She’s been in the organization for eight seasons, and they know what she can do. She was with them last year!” — Phoenix Mercury vice president Ann Meyers Drysdale.

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“The NBA does a really great job taking care of their people, and they’re not afraid to think outside of the box. I’m really proud of them. I’m proud of the Spurs. I’m proud of Adam Silver. It’s a great day for women, but it’s a great day for the NBA and how they feel about their growth going forward.” — Basketball Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman.

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“Congrats to @BeckyHammon for being the 1st female asst coach in the NBA! I love Pop for being progressive and recognizing Becky’s talent!” — Actress Eva Longoria.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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