BREAKING: Shoni Schimmel will not play in 2017, Liberty announce

New York Liberty guard Shoni Schimmel will not play in 2017, the team announced on Saturday.

In a statement, Schimmel cited personal issues and thanked the team for its support:

"“I’m very grateful to the New York Liberty for allowing me to take this season to deal with some personal issues. I look forward to rejoining them next year.”"

The news comes just days after head coach Bill Laimbeer told reporters that Schimmel would be taking time off from training camp. He gave no timetable for her return and did not state a reason.

Schimmel’s agent, Allison Galer, also refused to comment, according to an AP report.

Schimmel played in just 17 games in 2016 before a concussion cut her season short. She averaged only 4.5 minutes and 2.1 points in her first season in New York after contributing more regularly for two seasons in Atlanta.

She was the eighth pick in the 2014 WNBA Draft and was the MVP of the 2014 WNBA All-Star Game. After struggling to stay in shape with the Dream, Schimmel sought a fresh start in New York. Team president Isiah Thomas reiterated the team’s support for its young guard:

"“Shoni will continue to have the full support of the New York Liberty. We look forward to continuing to work with Shoni during her time away from the game.”"

The Liberty conclude preseason play Sunday against the Connecticut Sun and open the regular season on May 13 against San Antonio.