The Psychology of Winning: Becky Hammon’s Strategic Decision Making & Vision

The reigning champs, the Las Vegas Aces, have a very impressive training camp roster. Coach Hammon’s selections in the 2026 WNBA draft and the pieces she’s added to her already championship team could be some of the best moves this offseason. Adding Bri Turner and Stephanie Talbot adds some defensive versatility off the bench. With Dana Evans being out, Jordan Obi could definitely make the roster or earn a developmental spot by bringing high energy off the bench. 

Becky Hammon after winning a WNBA championship in her debut season in 2022. She is the first coach in WNBA history to win a title in their first season. (Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)

Orchestrating the Right Pieces 

Historically, Coach Hammon has been a master at selecting the right players for her team. We saw what she did with Tip Hayes, Nalyssa Smith, and Dana Evans. This season is no different.

With the addition of Chennedy Carter, you can expect to see some high IQ scoring because her fast decision-making and ability to score naturally will add more explosiveness to Coach

Chennedy Carter captured working out at Las Vegas Aces HQ. Picture from @lvaces via X.

Hammon’s championship-caliber offense. Chennedy’s quickness and athleticism will bring so much to defense. If you’re unfamiliar with her game, all I can say is welcome to Hollywood. 

Janiah Barker will be proof that when you’re drafted is not as important as where you are drafted. She will be learning from the best player in the world, in A’ja Wilson, while adding some front-court depth to make up for the loss of Kiah Stokes and Megan Gustafson. There are still some developmental areas the rookie has to focus on, but under the leadership of Coach Hammon, expect the rookie to become an even more versatile two- way player in the pros. 

 

Blocking Out the Noise

Despite what the haters had to say, Chennedy Carter showed maturity and growth when she played for the Sky back in 2024. After a year of overseas hoops and time to reflect, you can expect more maturity and growth from her. Chennedy reported on X that this has been the best training camp in her life. That speaks to the embrace she feels from her teammates and organization as a whole. 

There was also controversial chatter on social media about Janiah Barker’s draft stock dropping. She was expected to be a first-round draft pick. But for folks who know ball, the rookie was a steal for the Las Vegas Aces.  

There is a mental shift that players have when they’re given a chance, believed in, and get to do what they love after being counted out. When you add this to an already championship-caliber team under the brilliance of Coach Hammon, you get a psychological advantage over your opponents headed into this season.  With these types of acquisitions added to a championship roster, expect back-to-back championships for the Las Vegas Aces.