Sky GM Pagliocca backs Cloud amid free agency uncertainty
The signing ends a prolonged period of uncertainty for the 2019 champion, who addressed speculation regarding her market value while aligning with Chicago’s new defensive identity.
Chicago Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca has finalised a one-year, $500,000 contract with veteran WNBA guard Natasha Cloud, ending a significant period of uncertainty during the 2026 free agency period. Cloud, a 2019 championship winner with the Washington Mystics, remained unsigned for an extended duration, with training camps commencing before a deal was reached. Pagliocca has been credited with securing the signature of the three-time All-Defensive team member, a move designed to bolster the team’s defensive identity as they seek to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2023.
Cloud, who was traded twice last season before being released by the New York Liberty two days before the draft, described her free agency experience as "interesting" and admitted she has no definitive answer for why she was overlooked by other organisations for such a prolonged period. She addressed social media rumours suggesting she was being blackballed due to her activism, noting that while she remains silent on specific feedback from other teams, she stands by her morals and values as a Christian. Cloud expressed gratitude to Pagliocca for signing her when other potential suitors did not, stating she felt "valued" and "needed" from the moment she joined the organisation.
The signing comes as Pagliocca faces pressure to improve the Sky’s fortunes after the team finished tied for last place in 2025 with a 23-61 record. The general manager is under an obligation to the Washington Mystics to swap a 2027 first-round pick, adding urgency to the need for a competitive roster. Together with coach Tyler Marsh, Pagliocca has outlined a new team vision focused on "toughness and grit," seeking players who will "fight at all times." Cloud, recognised as one of the league’s best perimeter defenders, fits this strategic direction.
Through three games this season, Cloud is averaging 8.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.7 assists on a career-high 45.8% shooting. The Sky are currently 3-1, tied for second place, and have begun their season without Rickea Jackson, who tore her ACL in a win over the Minnesota Lynx. Cloud described her transition to the Sky as "seamless," citing the support from teammates and coaching staff in learning the team’s offensive and defensive schemes.
The Sky will now rely on their defensive resilience and Cloud’s leadership to maintain their standing in the standings. Cloud emphasised that the team’s identity is now defined by hard work and competition, stating that opponents will face a "dogfight" every night. With Pagliocca’s roster overhaul underway, the organisation is looking to Cloud to help anchor a defence that hopes to secure a postseason berth.
