Basketball: It's a big deal - Becky Hammon makes history as first female NBA head coach

Becky Hammon would have preferred a victory over history after becoming the first woman to coach an NBA team. The assistant coach took over the San Antonio Spurs in the second quarter after coach Gregg Popovich was ejected in a 121-107 loss to LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night. "I try not to think of the huge picture and huge aspect of it because it can be overwhelming," Hammon said. "I really have had no time to reflect. I have not had time to look at my phone. So, I don't know what's going on outside the AT&T Center." Hammon and the Spurs already had a lot to contend with against the defending league champion Lakers. James celebrated his 36th birthday with 26 points, eight assists and five rebounds in the Lakers' third double-digit victory. The teams will complete the two-game set Friday night. "(I was) trying to get the guys in the right spots," Hammon said. "Trying to get them motivated. Obviously, it's a learning situation for all of us, but I would have loved to have walked out there with a win with the guys." Popovich was ejected by official Tony Brown with 3:56 remaining in the second quarter. As he exited the court, Popovich pointed a finger at Hammon and had a succinct message. "You got 'em," Hammon said. "See? He doesn't treat us any differently than he does you guys." Said LeBron James: "Obviously she's been paying her dues over the last few years and Coach Pop has given her the opportunity. ... It's a beautiful thing just to hear her barking outcalls, barking out sets. She's very passionate about the game. Congrats to her and congrats for our league."