Jul 28, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; New York Liberty guard Marine Fauthoux (4) shoots a three point basket over Los Angeles Sparks guard Erica Wheeler (17) during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
The New York Liberty released franchise icon Betnijah Laney-Hamilton and signed guard Marine Fauthoux to a multi-year extension.
Laney-Hamilton was cut less than a week after the WNBA’s trade deadline after having spent five seasons with the team. The former All-Star was a tenacious defender and played a pivotal role in the team’s 2024 championship run.
“We want to thank Betnijah for everything she has given to this organization,” Liberty officials announced. “She has been an instrumental part of our success since 2021 and has made a lasting impact on our team, both on and off the court.”
Although some expected Laney-Hamilton to have a larger role with a Liberty team that needs to improve defensively, she started just five games and struggled to receive consistent minutes.
The former second-team All-WNBA defender shot just 36% from the field and less than 25% from three-point range and was unable to provide the same two-way impact she had in the past.
“While this decision is incredibly difficult, we believe this will give Betnijah the best opportunity to pursue a larger basketball role,” Liberty officials announced. “We wish her nothing but success moving forward, and she’ll always be a member of the Liberty family.”
The move freed space for the Liberty to sign Fauthoux to a “multi-year” deal, as announced by the team Friday afternoon.
The rookie guard has impressed on both ends of the court and has had her minutes steadily increased as the season has gone on. After being drafted by the team in 2021, Fauthoux spent time developing in France before coming to New York.
“She’s hitting really big shots for us and playing key minutes,” Sabrina Ionescu said. “It’s been fun to see how she’s getting more comfortable and confident every single game… she’s confident in herself and her game… We trust in her.”
Fauthoux has provided a steady presence off the bench and exhibited an advanced understanding of head coach Chris DeMarco’s intended scheme.
“She’s a competitor,” Coach DeMarco said. “She’s played at very high levels, she’s a winner and her teammates trust her.”
Fauthoux and the Liberty will take on the Las Vegas Aces at Barclays Center on Sunday in the final matchup of one of the WNBA’s most heated rivalries.
