Shoni Schimmel to miss 2017 WNBA season “to deal with some personal issues”

The New York Liberty and guard Shoni Schimmel released the following statements regarding the 2017 WNBA season:

New York Liberty president Isiah Thomas:

“Shoni Schimmel has informed us that it is her desire to take time away from the game during the 2017 WNBA season. 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.”

Shoni Schimmel:

“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.”

Schimmel has not participated in the team’s training camp. Last season was her first with the Liberty after spending the first two seasons of her pro career with the Atlanta Dream. She averaged 2.1 points per game in 2016 and only played in 17 contests.

During her rookie season she played in 34 games with 2 starts and averaged 8.3 points and 3.6 assists per contest. She was named MVP of the 2014 WNBA All-Star Game during her first season.