Mystics waive Rori Harmon to sign Betnijah Laney-Hamilton

On August 8, 2026, the Washington Mystics waived rookie guard Rori Harmon, who had played 10 games since being drafted with the No. 34 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. This decision was made to clear a roster spot for veteran guard/forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, recently claimed off waivers after being released by the New York Liberty. Laney-Hamilton, a former WNBA All-Star, missed the entire 2025 season due to a knee injury and has not performed at her previous level. The Mystics are hopeful that her experience will help them in the WNBA playoff race.

Mystics waive Rori Harmon to sign Betnijah Laney-Hamilton
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sport Published Aug 8, 2026

Topic overview

In brief

  • The Washington Mystics waived rookie guard Rori Harmon after she played 10 games with the team.
  • This move was made to create a roster spot for veteran guard/forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton.
  • The Mystics hope Laney-Hamilton can significantly contribute as they pursue a playoff spot.

Summary

In the United States, on August 8, 2026, the Washington Mystics made a significant roster change by waiving rookie guard Rori Harmon. Harmon, who was drafted with the No. 34 pick in the third round of the 2026 WNBA Draft, had participated in 10 games with the team but struggled to make an impact, averaging just one point in 6.7 minutes per game. This decision was made to clear a roster spot for veteran guard/forward Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, who was recently claimed off waivers after being released by the New York Liberty. Laney-Hamilton, a former WNBA All-Star, missed the entire 2025 season due to a knee injury and has not yet returned to her previous form, but the Mystics are optimistic about her potential contributions as they approach the WNBA playoff race. The team is looking to strengthen its lineup as they aim for a successful finish to the season. With Harmon now waived, other teams have a 48-hour window to claim her off waivers; if she goes unclaimed, she will become an unrestricted free agent, allowing her to explore opportunities with other franchises.

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Updated Aug 8, 2026

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