Natasha Cloud remains one of the top unsigned players left in WNBA free agency — and New York Liberty general manager Jonathan Kolb made that much clear this week.
With Cloud still unsigned as training camps open, Kolb publicly praised the veteran guard for her contributions on and off the court.
“She’s a phenomenal basketball player,” Kolb said at his annual preseason news conference. “She belongs in the WNBA.”
The comments came as questions surround Cloud's free agency, particularly after New York's pursuit of Satou Sabally effectively closed the door on a Liberty return. Reports indicated Cloud's return would likely have required a reduced role and pay cut, while the Liberty prioritized roster flexibility elsewhere.
Still, Kolb clarified that the decision wasn't a reflection of Cloud's value of a player or person.
“I just want to make that clear: What really happened here, for us, really wasn’t about fit,” Kolb said. “It’s about our targets in free agency and the condensed nature of free agency, how quickly things really move.”
The 10-year WNBA veteran averaged 10.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.7 rebounds in 2025 while helping New York get to a franchise-best 9-0 start.
“Tash is amazing. Look at what she did, she’s a New York legend in one year here because of who she is off the floor, but also on it,” Kolb added.
Cloud has built a reputation as an elite defender, organizer, and veteran leader — qualities that carry a lot of value for both title contenders and developing teams.
While there is no resolution on where she lands next, one thing seems to be clear: New York and Kolb still believe Cloud belongs on a roster.
