The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is conducting an investigation into the Las Vegas Aces. The team is facing allegations of making under-the-table payments to players.
The Next was the first to report on the allegations of misconduct by the Aces. Multiple sources have since confirmed the details. The investigation came after an Instagram post by Dearica Hamby, one of the team’s stars. Hamby now plays for the Los Angeles Sparks and has been highly critical of her former team since leaving. She said, “As of now, it’s just an investigation,” she continued, “I’m not going to speak too much on the situation, what was said, the things that were done, but I’m confident the league will what they need to do.
“It’s a process that has to happen. For now, I’m going to leave it at what I said in my statement, and the [Players Association] is doing their part right now, and then we’ll see.”
Article XV of the CBA specifically addresses circumvention. Section 1(b) defines one such violation, which basically states that “any action or practice that is intended to improperly influence a prospective client in contracting for professional services,” is illegal.
What’s Next For The Las Vegas Aces?
The Las Vegas Aces were on track to repeat after winning last season’s WNBA title before this news surfaced. They also recently signed Candace Parker, arguably the best player in WNBA History. They also signed Alysha Clark and Kiah Stokes. These players signed for less salary than expected based on their experience. This does not look good, considering the allegations.
There isn’t a set punishment for the Aces, but they may have to pay a fine in addition to losing draft picks or even voiding a contract. This could hurt the Aces in the long run because they won’t be able to rebuild their team for this season and beyond. Even if the investigation ends in favor of the Aces, the damage has been done.
The WNBA has already been receiving bad press due to the low pay of players. Not to mention that many play overseas in the offseason to supplement their income. If the league allows this behavior to continue, it will only lead to more bad publicity and increased tension between owners and players. The league needs to take immediate action to prevent this from happening again.
Get the latest sports news via Fantom Sports Industries. Follow us on Twitter via @Fantom_sports. Like us on Facebook Fantom Sports Industries. Subscribe to our YouTube channel via Fantom Sports. Subscribe to our Newsletter! Shop Fantom Sports Industries Merch.
Invest in your favorite athletes like stocks with “Prediction Strike!” Use code FANTOM when you sign up.