Natasha Cloud’s Journey Through WNBA Free Agency

As the WNBA free agency period drew to a close in April, a pressing question emerged: Why hadn’t Natasha Cloud been signed? Natasha Cloud herself could not provide an answer. After finally joining the Chicago Sky, questions lingered as to why she was one of the last free agents signed this spring.

Cloud has confidence in her qualifications. She averaged 10.1 points and 5.1 assists for a 27-win New York Liberty team last year, previously leading the league in assists in 2022 and securing a league championship in 2019. Cloud has been recognized on three All-Defensive teams, including a first-team selection, over the last seven seasons. Having turned 34 in February, Cloud still believes she remains in her physical prime. Yet the offers were not forthcoming.

When the Sky finally reached out with a one-year, $555,000 deal, it felt like a crucial opportunity. In Chicago, Cloud was seen as a valuable secondary facilitator for a team in need of revamping its system and culture. Despite finding a team, the delay in signing left a lasting impact.

Initially, the free agency delay seemed due to rushed negotiations. However, speculation arose that Cloud’s activism might have affected her contract prospects. Fellow WNBA players noted that off-court issues, rather than basketball skill, might be the reason for the delay.

You know that it ain’t got nothing to do with her basketball ability, Courtney Williams stated on Twitch, indicating other factors at play.

Cloud’s outspokenness during collective bargaining agreement negotiations had drawn attention. She voiced criticism of the league, commissioner, and some owners. Her political activism, including advocacy for Palestinian liberation and social justice causes, fueled more public discourse on her unsigned status.

The timing of Cloud’s free agency raised concerns that she was being blackballed for her beliefs. Cloud, however, stated that no team or agent had explicitly expressed concerns regarding her activism. She insisted her activism aligned with her Christian faith and that she was willing to seek organizations that supported her voice.

Questions about her departure from the Liberty also remained unanswered. Cloud acknowledged the financial focus on the Liberty’s star players but was left without clarification on her own status with the team.

While her lack of offers from the Liberty puzzled her, the broader disinterest from other teams also surprised her. This year’s WNBA free agency was compressed to just 13 days due to CBA negotiations, creating anxiety for veteran players like Cloud. Salary cap constraints added further complexity.

Cloud faced additional challenges when her agency dropped her two days before the WNBA draft. This unexpected development intensified the uncertainty, but Cloud eventually signed with Fabio Jardine of FirstPick Management.

Internally, the Chicago Sky initially did not target Cloud due to existing point guard plans. But her availability prompted a change in strategy. The team sought to bolster its guard lineup with Cloud’s facilitation skills during training camp.

The decision to pursue Cloud was simple, according to coach Tyler Marsh: Go get her. Meeting with Chicago’s front office, Cloud was quickly convinced by their ambition and strategy, agreeing to join their efforts for success.

Cloud’s immediate performance with the Sky saw her average 8.3 points and 4.7 assists over her first three games. Her role is expected to adapt as key players return from injury.

Off the court, Cloud plans to continue her activism in Chicago, driven by what she describes as her divine purpose. Her focus remains on ensuring dignity and visibility for individuals, despite any backlash her views may provoke.