Here’s a bold statement: Natasha Cloud’s impact on the New York Liberty and Unrivaled goes far beyond what you’ll ever see in a stat sheet. But here’s where it gets controversial—while many players are judged by their scoring prowess, Cloud’s value lies in the moments that don’t always make the highlight reel. And this is the part most people miss: her ability to extend possessions, neutralize matchups, and shift momentum without needing the glory of a box-score mention.
During Unrivaled’s 2025 inaugural season, Cloud averaged 9.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists for Phantom BC. These numbers might not scream superstar, but they reflect her steady, understated influence on the game. Fast forward to the current season, and Cloud has taken a noticeable step forward. Through four games, she’s averaging 10 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 5 assists while shooting a solid 47% from the field. On paper, the improvement seems modest, but it’s a testament to her sharper decision-making, better shot selection, and growing comfort in Unrivaled’s fast-paced, physical environment.
Here’s the controversial part: In a league where scoring often steals the spotlight, Cloud’s true strength lies in her versatility and basketball IQ. She’s equally comfortable defending guards, wings, or bigs, adapting her physicality and instincts to whatever the game demands. This adaptability shines even brighter in Unrivaled’s high-intensity, condensed format, where every read must be instant and every mistake is magnified.
But Cloud’s impact isn’t limited to the court. In the locker room, she’s a stabilizing force for younger players like Aliyah Boston and Kiki Iriafen. Her leadership is constant yet never overbearing, offering guidance without stifling their growth. And this is where it gets interesting—Cloud’s leadership style doesn’t fit the traditional mold. She keeps the team environment light and connected, whether by joining in on TikTok trends or turning practice shirts into her signature “papi” crop tops (with teammates sporting matching “mami” versions). It’s not just humor for the sake of it—it’s a deliberate effort to build chemistry in a league that demands instant cohesion.
On the court, Cloud’s intangibles are relentless. She deflects passes, outmuscles bigger defenders, grabs crucial rebounds, and anticipates plays before they fully unfold. Her basketball IQ ensures her teammates are always in the best position, whether through subtle spacing cues or vocal direction during live play. While her three-point shot remains a work in progress, nearly every other aspect of her game is polished. She knows exactly when to push the tempo, when to slow it down, and when to sacrifice personal glory for the team’s success.
This awareness was on full display during Phantom BC’s first win of the season. With the game on the line, Cloud had the option to take the potential game-winning shot herself. Instead, she made the extra pass to Iriafen for a layup that sealed the victory—a decision that perfectly encapsulates her selfless approach.
Unrivaled hasn’t reinvented Cloud; it’s amplified what she’s always been—a versatile, tough, and instinctive player. The league’s structure rewards exactly these qualities, and playing for Phantom BC has allowed her to operate with even greater clarity and confidence. Through four games, the numbers hint at progress, but the film confirms it. For Cloud, improvement isn’t about reinvention; it’s about maximizing the impact she already knows how to make.
Now, here’s the question for you: In a league that often prioritizes scoring, should players like Cloud—whose value lies in the intangibles—get more recognition? Let us know in the comments.
Don’t miss Phantom BC’s next game against Hive BC on January 18th at 8:45 pm EST on TruTV. And make sure to bookmark Liberty on SI (https://www.si.com/wnba/liberty) for the latest news, exclusive interviews, film breakdowns, and so much more!
