The New York Liberty released franchise icon Betnijah Laney-Hamilton and signed guard Marine Fauthoux to a multi-year extension. “We want to thank Betnijah for everything she has given to this organization,” Liberty officials announced. 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. “While this decision is incredibly difficult, we believe this will give Betnijah the best opportunity to pursue a larger basketball role,” Liberty officials announced. The move freed space for the Liberty to sign Fauthoux to a “multi-year” deal, as announced by the team Friday afternoon.