The Chicago Sky signed veteran point guard Natasha Cloud to a one-year contract on May 4, 2026, ending her extended period as an unsigned free agent.
The 11-year veteran joined the team just days before the regular-season opener to bolster a revamped roster focused on defensive grit.
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Cloud remained on the market until late in the free agency period despite averaging 10.1 points and 5.1 assists per game for the 27-win New York Liberty last season.
Her unsigned status sparked widespread online speculation regarding her political activism, though league sources and Liberty officials denied those rumors.
The veteran guard expressed confusion over the lack of communication from her former team during the offseason process.
She noted that the Liberty never extended a return offer, leaving her without a clear explanation before she eventually secured the contract with Chicago.
"I just have extra fuel behind me this year," Cloud told the Tribune.
"This is the place that I feel like is ready to pour gasoline on that — in the best way."
Cloud addressed the public speculation regarding her off-the-court stances during a press conference before the home opener at Wintrust Arena.
She emphasized her commitment to her personal morals and values while acknowledging that her vocal advocacy requires an aligned organization.
"No one's ever going to admit if that was the case," Cloud said Wednesday during a news conference before the Sky's home opener against the Dallas Wings at Wintrust Arena.
