Liberty Release Laney-Hamilton After Five Seasons

End of an era in New York

The New York Liberty have parted ways with forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, bringing an end to a five-year stint that included a championship run and more than a hundred regular-season appearances.

The move clears a roster spot that is expected to be used on developmental player Marine Fauthoux, who has been earning increased minutes and could now land a multiyear standard contract.

Diminishing role this season

Laney-Hamilton's departure follows a sharp drop in playing time under head coach Chris DeMarco. She featured in just 17 of the team's 32 matches this campaign, averaging 16.8 minutes per outing. Her last appearance came on 12 July.

General manager Jonathan Kolb called the decision a difficult one, praising the player's professionalism and leadership while acknowledging the aim was to give her a better opportunity elsewhere.

A decorated Liberty career

Since arriving in 2021, Laney-Hamilton played 126 regular-season games, averaging 12.4 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists. She was named a 2021 All-Star and earned a spot on the 2023 all-defensive second team. She had previously won the WNBA Most Improved Player award in 2020.

Fauthoux ready to step up

Fauthoux has made a strong case for promotion, posting 6.1 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game across her last eight outings - numbers that suggest she is ready for a permanent role.