Betnijah Laney-Hamilton was on the bench for the New York Liberty's Commissioner's Cup championship victory on Tuesday, a development that follows a season of fluctuating roles and recent injury rehabilitation. Despite the win, the 10-year veteran has found herself on the sidelines for key games, including two in the past ten days where she suited up but did not play.
Following the 93-85 win, coach Chris DeMarco stated Laney-Hamilton was healthy but cited strategic rotation adjustments due to uncertainty about the opposing Aces' game plan with A'ja Wilson sidelined by injury. "We tightened up the rotation a little bit tonight," DeMarco said. "But she's still gonna be a part of this [group] going forward."
Laney-Hamilton, who signed a one-year, $400,000 contract with the Liberty for this season, has experienced one of the most challenging periods of her career. She missed the entirety of last season due to knee surgery and entered this year feeling healthier than in recent times. However, her current season has been marked by a shift from starter to a reserve role, a mid-season absence for personal reasons, and another period of recovery after receiving an injection in her surgically repaired knee.
In 14 games played this season, including five starts, Laney-Hamilton is averaging 5.3 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. These statistics represent her lowest totals since 2018. As a foundational player for the Liberty, Laney-Hamilton previously expressed her commitment to playing "til the wheels fall off" and her presence was notably missed during last season's WNBA Finals.
Laney-Hamilton expressed gratitude for her fans' continued support, her voice overcome with emotion as she thanked them for their encouragement. "Just thank you, you know," she said. "Thank you for the support, thank you."
Separately, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve is on the verge of making WNBA history. She tied Mike Thibault's record for career regular-season coaching wins with her 379th victory earlier this week. Reeve's next win will establish her as the winningest coach in league history. Her opportunity to achieve this milestone comes against the Liberty on Friday.
Meanwhile, Liberty guard Marine Johannès missed Thursday's practice due to illness but is expected to play against the Lynx on Friday, according to DeMarco.