A history-making basketball player will open Midwestern State University's 2018-2019 Artist-Lecture Series. Becky Hammon was one of the best players in the history of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), then broke a barrier by becoming the first full-time assistant female coach in any of the four major men's sports leagues. Hammon will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday, September 6, in Akin Auditorium.

Considered an underdog for most of her career, Hammon's story details her rise from undrafted rookie in the WBNA to being named one of the league's most influential players. She will reflect on her inspiring journey and share her perspective on effective teambuilding, nurturing a æcan-do' attitude, and the power of strong support systems as the foundation for success.

The former star point guard and six-time All-Star played for the San Antonio Stars and the New York Liberty teams in the WNBA. She ranks ninth in WNBA history in points, third in 3-point field goals, fifth in assists and 10th in games played. She was also recognized as one of the 15 best WNBA players in the history of the league in 2011. She won a bronze medal in the 2008 Olympics, competing as a member of the Russian team.

In 2014, Hammon joined the staff of the San Antonio Spurs as a full-time assistant coach. That hiring led to her being named an espnW Woman of the Year that same year. Earlier this year, she was promoted to a front-of-the bench assistant coaching spot with the Spurs.

The Artist-Lecture Series was established in 1964 to bring noted lecturers and quality programs in the performing arts to the MSU campus and the Wichita Falls community.

Admission is $20 to general public; $18 for senior citizens, active-duty military, and MSU alumni; free to MSU students, faculty, and staff with ID. Tickets are available at the Clark Student Center Information Desk. For tickets or more information, contact the Office of Student Affairs at 940-397-7500 or student.affairs@msutexas.edu.