Liberty starter Natasha Cloud remains unsigned with WNBA preseason underway

There were hypothetical Liberty rosters that included Cloud, who is 34 and has played 10 seasons. Ultimately, when Kolb played his free-agent cards — which included signing Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones to three-year deals — Cloud wasn’t in his hand.

“It’s about our targets, free agency, the condensed nature of free agency and how quickly things really move,” Kolb said. “But also kind of probably felt like it took a while, too. When you’re in the dark on things and we’re pursuing other opportunities, it probably doesn’t feel good.”

Cloud’s desire to re-sign with the Liberty is unclear. But she spoke about New York as if it were home throughout her year with the franchise, even starring in an ad campaign with the city’s newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani, in March.

Multiple sources who work in the league have negated social media rumors that Cloud is being blackballed in the league because of her activism, telling The Athletic numerous teams have expressed interest in the veteran point guard.

Free agency negotiations between players and teams can last more than a month during a standard year, giving both sides time to weigh decisions. This year — because of the extended negotiations required to reach a new collective bargaining agreement — the designation and negotiation periods were condensed to just five days (April 6-10) before players could begin signing on April 11. Decisions for some teams were made quickly when the signing period opened, which could have taken potential opportunities off the table for Cloud before she was fully aware of her standing in New York’s plans.

Cloud also switched agents in the middle of free agency.

She has been in talks with a few teams, a source with knowledge of Cloud’s offers told The Athletic. The WNBA has a long history of players who have been outspoken on social justice issues and Cloud has been among the players at the forefront of those efforts.

Cloud hasn’t spoken to the media yet regarding her status as a free agent, but she did pen a message on social media on April 19.

“I’ve given my heart to every team and community I’ve been part of, never fully knowing if the impact I hope for was truly felt,” Cloud shared to Threads. “In this moment, though, receiving so much love, support and advocacy means everything. It’s a powerful reminder that the impact I’ve wanted to make beyond the court is real and aligned with what I believe God has called me to do through this game. … I’m ok. Just taking things in: even if they weren’t what I expected and trusting I’ll be alright.”

Many experts in the WNBA believe Cloud is expected to sign with a team this season, and multiple team sources think she could end up on a championship contender. It’s just a matter of when and finding the right fit.

This article originally appeared in The Athletic.

New York Liberty, WNBA

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