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Liberty Stunner: Betnijah Laney-Hamilton Released
New York Liberty Say Goodbye to Champion Betnijah Laney-Hamilton
What Happened?
The New York Liberty—a professional women’s basketball team in the WNBA—announced on Thursday that they have released Betnijah Laney-Hamilton from the team. Fans affectionately call her "Queen B."
This means she is no longer on the roster and is free to sign with any other team in the league.
Important Point
This was not because she played poorly—it was a strategic decision by the team’s management to give her a chance to find a bigger role elsewhere.
Why Is This a Big Deal?
Betnijah wasn’t just any player. She was a core piece of the Liberty’s historic success. Here’s why her departure matters:
- Joined the team in 2021 and became a leader on and off the court
- Helped win the franchise’s FIRST EVER championship (that’s a huge deal!)
- Known for her professionalism, leadership, and daily commitment
- General Manager Jonathan Kolb said her "legacy is forever cemented" with the Liberty
What Led to This Decision?
The move came after a tough 2026 season where her role on the team got smaller and smaller under head coach Chris DeMarco.
Her 2026 Season Stats:
| Stat | Average |
|---|---|
| Points per game | 4.7 |
| Rebounds per game | 1.9 |
| Assists per game | 1.5 |
| Games played | 17 |
| Games started | 5 |
Important Point
These numbers are much lower than her career averages. The coaching staff clearly wasn’t using her the same way—and the front office decided it was fairer to let her go find a team where she can play more.
What Did the Team Say?
Liberty General Manager Jonathan Kolb released a heartfelt statement. Here are the key takeaways:
- Gratitude – "Thank you for everything you’ve given this organization"
- Recognition – "Instrumental part of our success since 2021"
- Respect – "Incredibly grateful for her professionalism and leadership"
- Support – "We believe this gives Betnijah the best opportunity to pursue a larger basketball role"
- Family Forever – "She’ll always be a member of the Liberty family"
What Happens Next? (Step by Step)
- Betnijah becomes a free agent – She can now talk to and sign with any WNBA team
- Other teams will likely show interest – She’s a proven champion and veteran leader
- The Liberty move forward – They’ll fill her roster spot with another player
- Fans watch closely – Where will Queen B land? Will she start again? Win another ring?
Summary
- Betnijah Laney-Hamilton ("Queen B") has been released by the New York Liberty
- She helped win the franchise’s first championship in 2024
- Her role shrank significantly in the 2026 season (4.7 PPG in 17 games)
- The team says it was a tough but fair decision to help her find a bigger role
- She’s now a free agent and can sign with any team
- Her legacy with the Liberty is secure—champion, leader, fan favorite
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Was Betnijah traded or cut?
She was released (waived), not traded. That means the Liberty didn’t get any players or draft picks in return—they simply let her go so she can choose her next team.
Why would a championship team release a key player?
Role changes happen. The new coach (Chris DeMarco) had a different rotation, and Betnijah wasn’t getting minutes. The front office did her a favor by releasing her now so she can join a team where she’ll actually play.
Can she still play at a high level?
Absolutely. Before 2026, she was an All-Star caliber two-way player. One down year in a reduced role doesn’t erase her skills—she’s still in her prime.
Which teams might sign her?
Contenders needing wing depth and veteran leadership. Teams like Las Vegas, Minnesota, Connecticut, or Seattle could use a player with her playoff experience and defensive versatility.
Will the Liberty retire her jersey someday?
It’s possible! She’s a franchise-championship cornerstone. The Liberty don’t have many retired numbers yet—she’s definitely in the conversation down the road.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates on where Queen B signs next!
