Bethnia Rainey Hamilton needed a break.
She stepped away from the Liberty last week for personal reasons, missing the first three matches of this seven-game homestand.
However, she rejoined the rotation in Wednesday’s game and played a crucial part in the decisive 23-0 run that secured the win against the Phoenix Mercury.
In Friday’s game, the Liberty triumphed 75-68, with Laney Hamilton contributing 13 points, shooting 3-of-6 from the field. She also snagged three rebounds, dished out two assists, and made two steals while coming off the bench. Notably, she was part of the lineup that closed the game.
Laney Hamilton mentioned that she’s still getting used to her role and is prepared to pitch in wherever needed, even if it means playing from the bench.
“She’s a professional,” said Sato Sabally, who also is finding his place on the team after some time off. “Even through her process, she’s been very encouraging to me. She’s a leader, and I admire how she carries herself and communicates with us. She needs her time to adjust, and everyone can see how hard she works in the gym. She takes her time and is getting ready to perform.”
And that she is.
Laney Hamilton plays a pivotal leadership role on the team. She acts as the glue that holds the squad together but is still finding her rhythm after missing the entirety of last season due to knee surgery.
Returning from an injury is tough, not just physically but mentally, too. Still, Laney Hamilton appears to be handling it well and is making progress every day.
“She was amazing,” Sabally added. “Her strength on defense is impressive. It’s daunting to go up against her; she’s calm and collected, strong, and can also shoot.”
As a versatile player who can post up and defend multiple positions, she really is a challenge for opponents. It’s fantastic to see her back on the court, giving the team flexibility on defense.
After Friday’s intense match, Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu shared that coach Chris DeMarco noted she’s been dealing with some back discomfort.
This was Ionescu’s third straight game from the bench, but just her second one due to lower back pain. DeMarco expressed that she’s “just hurting” and doesn’t think this issue is tied to her earlier foot injury that kept her out for the season’s first two weeks. “I’m not sure if it was a tweak or something else,” he explained. “I just know she’s working hard to get back for the next game.”
