Full Breakdown
Aces Coach Becky Hammon Declines to Comment on Chennedy Carter’s Waiver
7/11/2026, 12:26:48 PM
Coach Hammon’s Silence on Carter’s Exit
In July 2024 the Las Vegas Aces released a roster move waiving guard Chennedy Carter without providing a public rationale. When asked about the decision during a pre-game press encounter, head coach Becky Hammon responded, “We aren’t going to comment on players that aren’t here anymore.” The brief answer contrasted with her earlier willingness to discuss former players, prompting media speculation about the reasons behind Carter’s departure.
Background & Context
Carter entered the 2024 season averaging 16.5 points and 6.8 assists per game while shooting 45.6 % from the field—statistics that placed her among the league’s most productive guards. After a historic start of 96 points in her first five games off the bench, her playing time dwindled, culminating in a scoreless 15-minute stretch against Indiana in early July, which proved to be her final appearance for the Aces.
Earlier in May, Carter told USA TODAY, “I know I’m gonna be a starter. I know I’m gonna play, and I’m not looking forward to no Sixth Man Award. I have bigger goals and bigger aspirations for myself.” Her career has featured multiple short-term stints: the Los Angeles Sparks waived her in 2022 citing conduct concerns, and the Chicago Sky did not re-sign her after she led the team in scoring in 2024.
Official Statements & Responses
Hammon’s singular comment on the waiver was the only official response from the Aces organization. In a separate interview earlier this season, Hammon praised newly signed guard Kate Martin, describing her as “great in the locker room, great teammate, super hard worker” and noting Martin’s “pro habits” from college.
Criticism & Opposition
Commentators have interpreted Hammon’s refusal to elaborate as indicative of undisclosed off-court issues, suggesting the silence may harm Carter’s prospects of signing with another WNBA franchise. Yardbarker’s analysis argued that the coach’s curt reply “went too far,” emphasizing the pattern of limited explanations surrounding Carter’s exits and questioning the transparency of the Aces’ decision-making process.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We aren’t going to comment on players that aren’t here anymore,” — Becky Hammon, Las Vegas Aces head coach
- “I know I’m gonna be a starter. I know I’m gonna play, and I’m not looking forward to no Sixth Man Award. I have bigger goals and bigger aspirations for myself,” — Chennedy Carter, player (USA TODAY interview)
- “[Martin is] great in the locker room, great teammate, super hard worker.” — Becky Hammon, Las Vegas Aces head coach
- “She scored 96 points across her first five games off the bench, the best such start in WNBA history.” — Yardbarker analysis (paraphrased summary)
