In a major blow to the New York Liberty's WNBA championship defense, the team announced Wednesday veteran guard Betnijah Laney-Hamilton will be sidelined for five-to-six months after undergoing knee surgery to repair a meniscus tear.

The Liberty announced on Monday that guard/forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton underwent successful surgery to repair a meniscus injury in her left knee and she will miss five to six months.

Meniscus tears are common knee injuries that have long frustrated patients and doctors due to limited repair options. A new 3D-printed hydrogel made from cow meniscus could transform how these injuries heal,

Meniscus tears are common knee injuries that have long frustrated patients and doctors due to limited repair options.

The New York Liberty announced on Monday morning that the beloved Betnijah Laney-Hamilton is at risk of missing all of 2025.

The Liberty’s core took a big hit, just months before the team’s 2025 title defense was about to start. Forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton underwent surgery on her left knee to repair an acute meniscus tear earlier this month, the Liberty announced Monday.

Along with Embiid, Paul George (adductor and left knee injuries), Jared McCain (left lateral meniscus surgery) and Eric Gordon (right wrist surgery) have been ruled out for the remainder of the year. Tyrese Maxey hasn’t played since March 3 because of a right finger sprain.

New York guard Betnijah Laney-Hamilton had surgery on her left knee to repair an acute meniscus injury earlier this month