Becky Hammon made history with the Spurs on Wednesday when she became the first woman to ever serve as a head coach in an NBA game, taking over for Gregg Popovich after he was ejected in the first half of San Antonio’s 121-107 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Kyrie Irving was asked about Hammon’s historical opportunity while he spoke to the media over Zoom after practice Thursday. Brooklyn’s point guard has been a significant supporter of women’s basketball, most notable donating $1.5 million to WNBA players who did not want to participate in the league’s bubble.
“It’s a genderless society going on in 2020 and I respect it,” Irving said. There shouldn’t be any role that is deemed for a male or female. It should be open, and that should be the principle that we all live by.
“But there’s still a fight, and I am grateful to be a part of history, and [for] Becky to make history. And there’s more history to be made for women and their empowerment in the workplace, as well as their respect across the world — especially black native women aligned with that, but all queens in general. So, I am grateful to be a part of that.”
Irving also laughed while adding:
“I am glad that Pop got ejected and put Beck in the driver’s seat and got to see her do her thing, as well, ’cause I know she is well-respected amongst her peers and across the whole entire culture, sports and entertainment-wise.”
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