David King of the San Antonio Express-News takes a good, long, in-depth look at the diminuative point guard and her struggled to make a name for herself, including her struggles as she decided to join Team Russia for its’ playoff run. One of my favorite parts of the article doesn’t detail Becky’s stateside troubles, but those within her own Olympic squad across the pond.

It also helps that Hammon, who has three years left on what is reportedly a $2 million contract with CSKA, won over members of the national team. Some had objected to the idea of playing with a U.S. point guard, both in the media and with Grudin, before the 2007-08 season.

“There was a big question mark about ‘How is she going to fit in with the Russian girls? How is she going to treat them? Is she going to be a pain in the butt on this team? Is she going to be a good teammate? Is she going to be somebody we can trust and rely on?’” Hammon said.

“And after they saw me on a day-in and day-out basis, they’re like ‘OK, we’ll take her.’”

King also provides a basic Olympic primer for those who want to know what to expect prior to the Olympic games.

Post from: EveryJoe

Hammon begins quest for Russian gold

Craig, South Dakota: Becky, What did your folks say when you said you were considering playing for the Russians in the olympics?

 Becky Hammon: (12:13 PM ET ) My mom gave me a more heart and emotional response. She didn’t want her baby to get hurt. My dad gave me a more logical approach. ”If USA Basketball doesn’t want you, go where you’re wanted.” Just concern. They want the truth to come out and that I didn’t want to play for my country, just that that door wasn’t open to me.

Becky Hammom ESPN Sportsnation chat.

Post from: EveryJoe

Becky Hammon live chats

Image details: Haier Shooting Stars served by picapp.com

As I touched upon last month, Becky Hammon is going to play for Russia in the 2008 Olympics.

From what Becky told the Associated Press, she’d have played for USA if given the chance to compete, but you can’t really fault her for wanting to play for Team Russia rather than sitting at home during the WNBA break this season.

“If I thought there was any indication that I could play with USA Basketball, I probably wouldn’t have done it,” she said. “I feel good (about the decision). If you had asked me a couple of months ago I would have had mixed emotions.

“But my options were to sit on my couch and watch the Olympics, or play in the Olympics. It made it an easy decision.”

I’m sure this will be a contentious issue for some people, but it’s not like she’s renouncing her citizenship. Leave your thoughts in the comments.

Post from: EveryJoe

Becky’s really playing for Russia