Dearica Hamby, a member of the Los Angeles Sparks, has achieved her goal of making the U.S. 3x3 Olympic team after replacing her injured teammate, Cameron Brink. Brink suffered a torn ACL in her left knee, leading to Hamby being selected to join the squad alongside Hailey Van Lith, Cierra Burdick, and Rhyne Howard for the upcoming Paris Games.
This is not the first time the U.S. team has had to make a replacement, as Katie Lou Samuelson missed the Tokyo Games due to COVID-19 and was replaced by Jackie Young, who helped secure a gold medal for the team.
Hamby expressed her initial disappointment at not making the roster but is now grateful for the opportunity. She was MVP of the 2023 3x3 AmeriCup and participated in the national team camp earlier this year.
USA Basketball officials welcomed Hamby to the team and expressed support for Brink's recovery. Hamby reflected on her journey as a player, emphasizing her gratitude for being considered despite not being part of the initial pool of players.
Setting goals has been a significant part of Hamby's journey, as she wrote her aspirations on a basketball before the season. Alongside making the Olympic team, her goals include achieving specific statistical milestones and leading the Sparks to the playoffs.
Hamby's story also inspired her daughter, who created her own goal ball with aspirations of meeting Taylor Swift. The family's dedication to setting and pursuing goals highlights the power of determination and perseverance in achieving success.
As Hamby prepares to represent the U.S. in the 3x3 Olympic competition, she looks forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, embodying the spirit of resilience and ambition in pursuit of her dreams.
For more updates on the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris, visit AP Summer Olympics.
