Betnijah Laney-Hamilton of the New York Liberty made a remarkable comeback in Game 2 of the WNBA Finals against the Minnesota Lynx. After struggling following knee surgery in July, Laney-Hamilton scored 20 points, tying her season-high and leading her team to a crucial victory.
Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello had expressed concerns about Laney-Hamilton’s performance prior to the game, noting she wasn’t herself. Despite these challenges, Laney-Hamilton’s determination shone through at Barclays Center.
In 32 minutes of play, Laney-Hamilton shot 8-14 from the field, including 4-6 from three-point range. Her scoring prowess helped the Liberty avoid a potential 0-2 Finals deficit.
Laney-Hamilton’s performance joins a list of impressive WNBA Finals showings in recent years:
1. Chelsea Gray’s 20-point, 6-assist game for the Las Vegas Aces in the 2022 Finals, earning her Finals MVP honors.
2. Kahleah Copper’s breakout 22-point performance for the Chicago Sky in Game 3 of the 2021 Finals against the Phoenix Mercury.
3. Breanna Stewart’s dominant 37-point, 15-rebound game for the Seattle Storm in the 2020 Finals against the Las Vegas Aces.
4. Emma Meesseman’s 22-point performance off the bench for the Washington Mystics in Game 3 of the 2019 Finals against the Connecticut Sun.
5. Maya Moore’s clutch 18-point fourth quarter for the Minnesota Lynx in Game 3 of the 2017 Finals against the Los Angeles Sparks.
6. Candace Parker’s 28-point, 12-rebound effort for the Los Angeles Sparks in the deciding Game 5 of the 2016 Finals against the Minnesota Lynx.
7. Tamika Catchings’ 25-point, 8-assist game for the Indiana Fever in Game 4 of the 2015 Finals against the Minnesota Lynx.
8. Diana Taurasi’s 31-point outburst for the Phoenix Mercury in Game 3 of the 2014 Finals against the Chicago Sky.
After the game, Laney-Hamilton credited her teammates for their support during her recovery. “My teammates just continued to trust in me as I was finding my way back to feeling myself,” she said. Teammate Breanna Stewart expressed happiness to see Laney-Hamilton back in form.
The coaching staff encouraged Laney-Hamilton to take advantage of her three-point shooting ability against the Lynx’s defense. This strategic adjustment boosted her confidence and opened opportunities for other players.
Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve noted the importance of consistent performances from role players in high-stakes games. The Liberty benefited from strong performances in both games, with Leonie Fiebich stepping up in Game 1.
As the Liberty push for their first WNBA championship, Laney-Hamilton’s health and performance will be crucial. “I feel good,” Laney-Hamilton stated after the game. “I hope I continue to feel like this — both mentally and physically as we move forward in this championship push.”
