The Chicago Sky have just made a major splash by signing one of the most talented free agents still on the market. Natasha Cloud, a seasoned point guard known for her elite playmaking and tenacious defense, has officially joined the team, the organization announced Monday.
Cloud's free agency journey took an unexpected turn this offseason. Despite being widely regarded as the best available player, she remained unsigned through the preseason—a surprise given her proven track record as a starter in the WNBA. But now, she's found her home in the Windy City.
"Natasha is one of the best passers and defenders in our league," said Chicago general manager Jeff Pagliocca in a statement. "She fits in with the other proven winners on our roster."
The 29-year-old guard brings a wealth of experience to the Sky. Drafted in 2015, Cloud spent her first eight seasons with the Washington Mystics, where she became a fan favorite and a key contributor. She then played for the Phoenix Mercury in 2024 before joining the New York Liberty last season. Over her career, she has started 283 of 327 games, averaging 8.8 points, 5.3 assists, and 1 steal per game.
Last season with the Liberty, Cloud elevated her game, posting averages of 10.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.2 steals across 41 games. According to ESPN's Alexa Phillippou, her new contract is a one-year, $555,000 deal—a testament to her value as a proven winner.
This signing also sheds light on the Sky's earlier decision to waive second-year guard Hailey Van Lith. The 2025 first-round pick had a strong preseason but was cut on Monday morning. ESPN's Kendra Andrews reported that the move was based on the coaching staff's "style-of-play preference," suggesting Cloud's arrival aligns perfectly with the team's new direction.
Cloud now joins a completely revamped Chicago roster that features a mix of veteran stars and rising talent: Skylar Diggins-Smith, Rickea Jackson, DiJonai Carrington, Azura Stevens, and Jacy Sheldon, alongside returners like Kamilla Cardoso, Rachel Banham, and Maddy Westbeld. It's a lineup built for both grit and finesse.
The Sky struggled last season, missing the playoffs entirely. But with an almost total overhaul in the offseason, the team is looking to turn a new page. They went 0-2 in the preseason, falling to the Atlanta Dream and Phoenix Mercury, but the addition of Cloud could be the spark they need.
Chicago's season opener is set for Saturday, May 9th, against the Portland Fire. With Cloud now in the fold, Sky fans have plenty of reason to be excited for what's ahead.