But she’s not solely focused on what happens on the court. “As a member of the New York Liberty, I know that my job isn’t just about scoring baskets and winning games, though it is a lot of fun. My job is also to be a role model to our millions of fans, particularly the women and young girls who cheer us on from inside the arena and in front of their television sets,” she wrote in a feature on drdonnica.com. “While some might say having so many eyes on you is a burden, I see it as an opportunity to teach our fans about empowerment, the magic of possibility and to raise awareness about important issues.”

Her multifaceted personality has made Hammon a fan favorite since day one. Fans immediately sensed her passion for people and basketball and, perhaps, her fish-out-of-water awkwardness in the big city. Although both of her parents have East Coast roots, to Hammon, New York was the furthest thing imaginable from South Dakota. Now the Big Apple is her home almost year-round.

“I can remember not even being able to catch my first taxi,” Hammon said with a laugh. “You have to learn quickly in New York or you’re going to get swept away. Being adaptable, learning and really appreciating what New York has to offer: After that, it’s easy to become a New Yorker.”

After eight years of going all out on the court, now, when someone says WNBA All-Star, they can picture a 5'6" guard who will go for a shot—even when someone a foot taller is standing right in front of her.

Hammon proudly admitted she embodies the New York attitude when it comes to her career. “I’m very ambitious and very adventurous,” she said. “I’m a risk taker. I’m somebody who will risk a lot and I’ll get a lot in return or I’ll fall on my face in front of everybody. You’ve got to put yourself out there.”

Becky Hammon has played for the New York Liberty since 1999, and scored her 2000th career point in August 2005. During the off-season, she focuses on outreach by conducting clinics for attendees of the Becky Hammon School of Skills basketball camp for kids in its two locations: Fort Collins, Colorado and Rapid City, South Dakota.