Betnijah Laney: A Star on and off the Court
On the basketball court, Betnijah Laney of the New York Liberty is a versatile player who takes on various roles. Whether it’s guarding the opponent’s top player, fighting for position around the rim, or stretching the floor from the corner, Laney is a force to be reckoned with. However, off the court, Laney’s versatility extends beyond her basketball skills and into her fashion sense.
As part of The Athletic’s Super Squads project, which follows the New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces in their pursuit of a WNBA championship, we had the opportunity to delve into Laney’s off-court style. In a recent Q&A exchange after a Liberty practice, Laney shared insights into her fashion choices and how her style has evolved since entering the league.
When asked about how her style has changed since entering the league, Laney mentioned that it has evolved along with the fashion trends. While she doesn’t consider herself a trendy person, she pays attention to what’s in and tries to put together outfits accordingly. Her style is not confined to one particular look; some days she opts for comfy and oversized outfits, while other days she goes for a chic and cute vibe.
Unlike some players who work with stylists, Laney prefers to style herself. She enjoys looking cute and dresses accordingly based on her mood and the occasion. This flexibility allows her to experiment with different looks and showcase her individuality through fashion.
Living in New York City, known for its vibrant fashion scene, one might assume that Laney feels pressure to make standout fashion choices. However, she revealed that she doesn’t necessarily put more pressure on herself in that regard. She remains true to her personal style and doesn’t feel the need to conform to any specific expectations.
Reflecting on how player fashion has changed around the league, Laney acknowledged that there have been significant shifts. When she entered the league, there were more restrictions on what players could wear. However, with those restrictions lifted, players now have the freedom to fully express themselves and showcase their unique styles. Laney finds it exciting to witness this growth and evolution of fashion in the WNBA.
When asked about a wardrobe staple she can’t live without, Laney mentioned that it’s a purse. A purse is not only a functional accessory but also a statement piece that can elevate any outfit. Laney understands the importance of accessories in completing a look and uses them to enhance her personal style.
Betnijah Laney’s fashion choices are as diverse as her skills on the basketball court. She embraces different styles, adapts to fashion trends, and expresses herself through her outfits. Her ability to effortlessly transition from comfy and oversized to chic and cute demonstrates her versatility not only as an athlete but also as a fashion-forward individual.
The Super Squads series, in partnership with Google Lens, provides an inside look into the lives of WNBA players and how they navigate their careers both on and off the court. Through this collaboration, The Athletic maintains its editorial independence, ensuring that the reporting and editing process remain unbiased and unaffected by external influences.
As we continue to follow the New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces on their championship quests, we look forward to uncovering more about the players’ personal styles and how they contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of fashion in the WNBA.
(Illustration: Ray Orr / The Athletic; Photos of Betnijah Laney: Catalina Fragoso / NBAE via Getty Images, Evan Yu / NBAE via Getty Images)