Chicago Sky guard Natasha Cloud is navigating a mid-career transition after her departure from the New York Liberty, a move driven by salary cap constraints and shifting roster priorities. After an offseason that saw the 10-year veteran sign a one-year, $500,000 contract with Chicago on May 4, Cloud is adjusting to a reserve role while maintaining a reputation for leadership and defensive tenacity, according to reports from the New York Post.
Why did the New York Liberty part ways with Natasha Cloud?
The decision to move on from Cloud was primarily a result of the Liberty’s financial constraints under the WNBA salary cap. According to the New York Post, the Liberty prioritized the signing of marquee free agent Satou Sabally and guard Pauline Astier. Once the salary cap implications of these signings were finalized, the team determined they could not retain Cloud. General manager Jonathan Kolb noted after the team’s first-round playoff exit that the organization intended to reevaluate the backcourt pairing of Sabrina Ionescu and Cloud, ultimately deciding to pursue a different configuration for the 2026 season.
How has Natasha Cloud adapted to her new role with the Chicago Sky?
Cloud has transitioned into a new phase of her career in Chicago, embracing a mentorship role alongside her on-court duties. Through 12 games with the Sky, she has averaged 9.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, per team statistics. Notably, she has come off the bench in six of those contests, marking the first time she has not been a primary starter since 2018. Sky head coach Tyler Marsh described her presence as “contagious,” citing her ability to communicate and lead younger players on both ends of the floor.
What are the broader trends in WNBA veteran mobility?
Cloud’s experience reflects a growing trend of veteran mobility within the league as teams aggressively manage assets to build championship-caliber rosters. The Liberty’s decision to move on from a player they had acquired via a trade involving two first-round picks only a year prior highlights the high-stakes nature of modern WNBA team building. This pattern of “business-first” decision-making, as Cloud described it to the New York Post, underscores the volatility even established champions face when salary structures shift.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Natasha Cloud currently a starter for the Chicago Sky?
No. As of her recent appearances, Cloud has transitioned into a reserve role, coming off the bench in half of her games played during the current season.
What was the reason for Natasha Cloud leaving the New York Liberty?
The departure was a financial necessity. The Liberty reached the league’s salary cap limit after signing Satou Sabally and Pauline Astier, leaving no room for Cloud’s contract.
How long is Natasha Cloud’s current contract?
Cloud signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Sky valued at $500,000, which was finalized on May 4.
What do you think about the impact of salary cap constraints on veteran player movement? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more WNBA analysis.
