• Betnijah Laney-Hamilton is likely to have her contract suspended by the New York Liberty due to a left meniscus injury.
• Suspending Laney-Hamilton's contract would free up $185,400 in cap space and an extra roster spot for the Liberty.
• The Liberty face roster challenges with Laney-Hamilton's injury and players participating in the EuroBasket tournament.

New York Liberty's General Manager Jonathan Kolb anticipates suspending Betnijah Laney-Hamilton's contract for the 2025 season due to a left meniscus injury she sustained while playing in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league. This decision, while disappointing for both the team and Laney-Hamilton, is driven by the need to manage the salary cap and maintain roster flexibility. The suspension would open a roster spot and free up $185,400, allowing the Liberty to potentially retain key players or sign new ones. The team also faces a temporary roster reduction in June due to players participating in the EuroBasket tournament.

• What: The New York Liberty are expected to suspend Betnijah Laney-Hamilton's contract for the 2025 WNBA season due to a left meniscus injury.
• Who: Key individuals include Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (injured player), Jonathan Kolb (Liberty's General Manager), Sandy Brondello (Liberty's Coach), Kennedy Burke, Rebekah Gardner, Isabelle Harrison, Jaylyn Sherrod, Marquesha Davis, Marine Johannes, Nyara Sabally, and Leonie Fiebich.
• When: The injury occurred during the winter of 2025. The suspension is expected by the start of the WNBA season. Laney-Hamilton's return to basketball activities was initially projected in 5-6 months from March 31, 2025. Three players will leave in June for the EuroBasket tournament.
• Where: The events are centered around the New York Liberty WNBA team, based in New York. Training camp is at Barclays Center.

The potential suspension of Betnijah Laney-Hamilton's contract presents both challenges and opportunities for the New York Liberty. While losing a key player is a significant blow, the freed-up cap space allows for strategic roster adjustments. The team's ability to retain other players or sign new talent could mitigate the impact of Laney-Hamilton's absence. The temporary departure of players for the EuroBasket tournament further complicates the roster situation, highlighting the importance of flexibility and depth.

First off, heart breaks for Betnijah. I think everyone in this room knows how much she means to this organization, what she means to our fan base, and how she’s been a major part of our success.

It takes that money off of our cap. We’re able to carry 12 players, and then we also maintain negotiating rights next year. So as we take all that into account. You know, I think it’s more likely than not, that by the start of the season, that will be the thing.

It can’t be overstated. National teams mean everything to these players.

The New York Liberty are likely to suspend Betnijah Laney-Hamilton's contract for the 2025 season due to injury, creating roster and cap space flexibility. The team faces challenges with her absence and players leaving for EuroBasket, but the Liberty aims to navigate these hurdles strategically. The situation remains fluid as the team heads into training camp and assesses its options for maintaining a competitive roster.