Full Breakdown
New York Liberty Renounce Rights to Three Players in Offseason Move
4/7/2026, 3:35:30 AM
Overview of the Transaction
The New York Liberty have made their first offseason roster transaction by renouncing the rights to guard Ivana Dojkic and forwards Seehia Ridard and Annika Soltau. This move was officially recorded on the WNBA’s transaction page on Monday but is retroactive to Sunday. The Liberty had seven players whose rights were eligible for renouncement, as teams can only carry over the rights to four players who did not participate in the previous season.
Player Status and Future Prospects
The Liberty still maintain the draft rights to French point guard Marine Fauthoux. Additionally, the statuses of forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, Spanish forward/center Raquel Carrera, and Chinese center Han Xu are classified as “suspended-contract expired,” which allows the Liberty exclusive negotiating rights with each player. Reports indicate that Laney-Hamilton is expected to return after missing the previous season due to knee surgery. Carrera is anticipated to make her WNBA debut this season, while Xu is also looking to return to the league.
Upcoming Free Agency and Draft
The Liberty have begun the offseason process as teams were authorized to start sending out qualifying offers on Monday. The free agency negotiating period is set to open on Wednesday, with official signings permitted starting Saturday. The 2025 WNBA Draft is scheduled for Monday, where the Liberty hold the No. 41 overall pick.
Criticism & Opposition
While the transaction appears to be a strategic move for roster management, some analysts have raised concerns about the implications of renouncing rights to players who have not yet had the opportunity to prove themselves in the league. Critics argue that this could limit the team's depth and potential future talent.
Official Statements & Responses
Liberty General Manager Jonathan Kolb has not publicly commented on the specific renouncement of Dojkic, Ridard, and Soltau. However, the organization is focused on optimizing their roster for the upcoming season, with an emphasis on integrating returning players and new signings.
Verbatim Quotes
This offseason marks a pivotal moment for the New York Liberty as they navigate roster changes and prepare for the upcoming season, aiming to enhance their competitiveness in the WNBA.
