The inaugural season of Unrivaled has been overshadowed by a growing list of injuries, and now, another high-profile name has been added. New York Liberty star Betnijah Laney-Hamilton has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to an undisclosed injury, leaving fans and her WNBA team anxiously awaiting further updates.
Laney-Hamilton, who joined Unrivaled on a relief player contract, had only played two games for Laces BC before her absence. While the specifics of her injury remain unclear, its timing is particularly concerning given that the Liberty’s 2025 training camp begins next month.
This development raises larger questions about the physical toll of the 3-on-3 format, as several stars—including Kate Martin, Kahleah Copper, and Alyssa Thomas—have also suffered injuries in the league’s first season. For WNBA teams, this situation presents a dilemma: is playing in Unrivaled an unnecessary risk for players preparing for the full-length, high-intensity WNBA season?
For the Liberty, losing Laney-Hamilton for any extended period could be significant. She played a crucial role in the team’s 2024 championship run, providing reliable scoring, playmaking, and perimeter defense. Her absence in training camp could impact team chemistry, especially with potential roster adjustments in the offseason.
As fans react with shock and concern, the focus now shifts to Laney-Hamilton’s recovery and whether this injury will have lingering effects heading into the WNBA season. The Liberty’s medical staff will need to carefully evaluate the situation, balancing her rehabilitation with the team’s goals for 2025.
For now, Unrivaled continues to be both an exciting opportunity and a cautionary tale—offering a new platform for women’s basketball while also raising concerns about player health and longevity.
