Betnijah Laney-Hamilton is navigating a challenging return to professional basketball this season with the New York Liberty, following a year-long rehabilitation from knee surgery. The 6-foot guard/forward inked a one-year, $400,000 contract in April, marking a critical “prove-it” year as she aims to secure her next deal, potentially a significant raise.
Laney-Hamilton’s role with the Liberty has shifted throughout the season as she works to regain her pre-injury form. After starting the first three games, she briefly stepped away from the team for personal reasons and returned to a bench role. Recently, she underwent an injection in her surgically repaired knee, causing her to miss three games. Although she was dressed for Sunday’s game in Los Angeles, she did not play, a decision that was planned in advance as part of her gradual reintegration into the rotation.
Liberty head coach Chris DeMarco emphasized that Laney-Hamilton’s presence on the bench was intended to maintain her connection with the team. “To be part of the team” was the purpose of suiting up without playing, he explained. Laney-Hamilton acknowledged that she was aware of the situation and noted improving communication and understanding with DeMarco about expectations moving forward.
The Liberty have an 11-1 record in games in which Laney-Hamilton appears on the court, and she holds the team’s highest net rating at 17.5. However, her average playing time has fallen to 17.8 minutes per game—the lowest since she joined the franchise in 2021. While she has shown progress in mobility compared to earlier in the season, she continues to search for optimal rhythm within the Liberty’s offense.
Breanna Stewart, the team’s star forward, praised Laney-Hamilton’s defensive impact, highlighting her fearless style and ability to alter games. Stewart cited Laney-Hamilton’s block against four-time league MVP A’ja Wilson during the team’s recent 87-76 victory as a prime example of her influence. “B’s a pro’s pro,” Stewart said, underscoring Laney-Hamilton’s role as a critical defensive presence.
Since joining New York in 2021, Laney-Hamilton has become a key figure both on and off the court, noted for her leadership and vocal presence during team meetings and practices. Her contributions were vital during the Liberty’s 2024 championship run, and her absence last season was keenly felt amid a difficult campaign.
Despite a history of injuries, Laney-Hamilton acknowledges the unique difficulty of her current comeback but remains focused on daily improvement without succumbing to pressure. “Every day that we go out there is me trying to make a statement,” she said. “Just show what I’m capable of, but I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily pressure.”
As the Liberty look to leverage her talents more consistently, the team remains optimistic about Laney-Hamilton’s ongoing reintegration and her potential to bolster their competitiveness throughout the season.