Natasha Cloud’s Unexpected WNBA Free Agency Journey

As the final days of WNBA free agency came to an end in April, a pressing question emerged: Why wasn’t Natasha Cloud signed? Even after joining the Chicago Sky, Cloud still wonders why her signing was delayed.

Cloud is confident in her performance record. Last year, she averaged 10.1 points and 5.1 assists for a successful New York Liberty team. She led the league in assists in 2022 and won a championship in 2019. Over the past seven seasons, she was selected for three All-Defensive teams.

Despite being 34, Cloud believes she remains in peak physical condition. Yet, offers were slow to come in.

Eventually, the Sky extended a one-year, $555,000 offer. This opportunity felt critical as the team aimed to overhaul its strategy and culture. However, Cloud felt the earlier waiting period was challenging.

Cloud expressed increased determination this year, telling the Tribune, “I have extra fuel behind me.” Initially, her absence from free agency seemed like a byproduct of a rapid negotiation period. But speculation grew that external factors were responsible—especially rumors circulated by other WNBA players.

An X account referenced a Front Office Sports report that claimed league sources denied social media rumors that Cloud was blacklisted due to her activism. Cloud’s girlfriend, Toronto Tempo forward Isabelle Harrison, refuted this report, sparking more fan debate.

Courtney Williams of the Minnesota Lynx and Natisha Hiedeman of the Seattle Storm also voiced concern about Cloud’s lengthy signing wait. Williams noted, “You know that it ain’t got nothing to do with her basketball ability.”

Speculation arose regarding what “other stuff” might have influenced decisions. Cloud is outspoken about league and management issues and was critical during collective bargaining negotiations. Her political stances have drawn criticism too.

She advocates for Palestinian liberation and displayed activism during games. Some believe her political views may have impacted her free agency situation. Yet, Cloud shared, “No one’s ever going to admit if that was the case.”

Cloud feels that her characteristics require certain organizations for alignment. She explained, “I will say what I feel … I won’t shy away from it.”

The absence of an offer from the Liberty was notably perplexing for Cloud. Despite understanding the financial commitments to key players, she never received definitive feedback on why an offer wasn’t made.

Cloud remarked, “Your guess is as good as mine.”

The unusual free-agency period, lasting only 13 days due to protracted negotiations, left many players navigating rapidly changing scenarios. For Cloud, veterans like herself were squeezed as teams navigated the salary cap.

Some teams, like the Lynx and Aces, had already secured point guards. Past trades and agency changes further complicated Cloud’s situation. Dropped by her agency amid free agency, she later signed with another.

Amid frustration, Cloud tried to stay focused and minimally involved in public discourse. She recognized her value and relied on her game to speak for itself.

The Sky initially did not prioritize Cloud, seeking other key players like Skylar Diggins for their lineup. As options evolved, Cloud remained viable and Chicago’s team saw potential in her abilities. By securing Cloud, coach Tyler Marsh and the team demonstrated confidence in her skills.

In Cloud’s first conversation with Sky’s General Manager Jeff Pagliocca, she felt drawn to the team’s win-now focus. “They really got some dogs in them,” Cloud told the Tribune.

Cloud continues to integrate into her role in Chicago, averaging 8.3 points and 4.7 assists in early games. Her adaptability will be vital as teammates like Courtney Vandersloot return. Nonetheless, Cloud remains committed to her principles and activism, striving to make meaningful impacts off the court as well.

“My activism isn’t going to stop,” she declared. “This is what God’s purpose is for my career.”