The New York Liberty have waived veteran forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, the team announced Thursday via press release. The move comes after Laney-Hamilton had been absent from the team's rotation for eight consecutive games, despite being available.
Sources indicate the decision was influenced by the team's need to make space on the roster. Developmental player Marine Fauthoux, who had been limited to 12 regular-season games and ineligible for the postseason, had reportedly cemented her place in the rotation. With only one game left in her eligibility window, the Liberty appeared poised to convert Fauthoux to a standard contract, necessitating the departure of another player.
Laney-Hamilton was a foundational player for the Liberty, but her recent inactivity pointed toward an impending roster change. The timing of the announcement, released via press release, meant the player did not receive a public farewell from the home crowd.