What's Happening?
The Chicago Sky have announced the waiving of second-year guard Hailey Van Lith and the signing of veteran guard Natasha Cloud. Van Lith, a former first-round draft pick, played 29 games in her rookie season, averaging 3.5 points and 1.6 assists. Natasha Cloud,
a seasoned player with 10 WNBA seasons under her belt, joins the Sky with career averages of 8.8 points, 5.3 assists, and 3.3 rebounds. Known for her defensive prowess, Cloud has been recognized on the league's All-Defensive teams multiple times. The Sky also released forward Maddy Westbeld and guard/forward Aicha Coulibaly, both second-round picks from 2025.
Why It's Important?
The addition of Natasha Cloud is a strategic move by the Chicago Sky to strengthen their roster with experienced talent. Cloud's defensive skills and playmaking abilities are expected to enhance the team's performance, particularly as they prepare to face new challenges in the upcoming season. This roster change reflects the team's commitment to building a competitive lineup capable of contending in the WNBA. For Van Lith, being waived presents an opportunity to explore new avenues in her professional career, while the Sky's decision underscores the competitive nature of professional sports where performance and team fit are crucial.
What's Next?
The Chicago Sky are set to open their season against the expansion team, the Portland Fire. This game will be a test of the new roster dynamics and the impact of Natasha Cloud's addition. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how the team performs with its revamped lineup. The Sky's management will likely continue to assess team performance and make adjustments as needed to ensure a successful season. For Van Lith and other waived players, the focus will be on finding new opportunities within the league or exploring other professional options.
