A familiar and reliable presence for the New York Liberty may be sidelined far longer than fans hoped. Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, one of the team’s most consistent contributors in recent years, is now facing the possibility of having her contract suspended for the entire 2025 WNBA season following a knee injury.
Liberty general manager Jonathan Kolb acknowledged the growing likelihood of this outcome, telling the New York Post that “it is fair to assume” the team will move forward with a contract suspension.
Kolb emphasized that the Liberty must be practical heading into a demanding year full of variables,
including expansion, EuroBasket obligations and the need to protect the health of their core players.
“We want to get to camp and really understand what we have,” Kolb said. “We need to be mindful about not putting too much wear and tear on our existing players. We need to be fully formed come September—that’s where we need to be hitting our stride.”
Laney-Hamilton suffered a meniscus tear while competing in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league and underwent surgery shortly after. According to the New York Post’s Madeline Kenney, she has already begun her rehab and is expected to return to on-court activities in August or September. While a suspension would preserve a roster spot and save the Liberty $185,400, it would also deliver a significant setback for a team preparing to defend its WNBA championship.
The veteran wing has been a cornerstone for New York, averaging 11.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists last season. Her impact stretches far beyond the box score, but knee issues have plagued her career. She missed 12 games last season after a minor procedure and previously sat out time in 2022 due to a right knee injury.
With another lengthy recovery ahead, sitting out the year may ultimately serve her long-term health. Kolb remains optimistic, saying the organization is confident she will return stronger.
“We’re fully confident that she’s going to make a full return,” he said. “She’s going to have a great opportunity to be the healthiest she’s been in some years.”
The Liberty will open their 2025 season against the Las Vegas Aces on May 17, but whether Laney-Hamilton will be part of the roster remains uncertain as the team waits for clarity and focuses on the bigger championship picture.
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