The essentials
Chicago Sky waive first-round pick Van Lith, sign veteran guard Cloud.
The Chicago Sky have made significant roster moves ahead of the 2026 season, waiving 2025 first-round pick Hailey Van Lith while signing veteran guard Natasha Cloud. The decisions represent a shift in the franchise's roster construction strategy.
Van Lith demonstrated strong performance during preseason play, scoring 20 points on perfect shooting in a game in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, yet did not make the final roster. The Sky are also conducting additional roster cuts as the roster finalization deadline approaches.
The signing of Cloud brings veteran experience to the backcourt, while the waiver of Van Lith opens roster flexibility for the expanding 15-team league launching its 2026 season on May 8. These moves reflect the competitive adjustments teams continue making during the preseason period.
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Van Lith's preseason performance contrasts with waiver decision
Despite Van Lith's impressive preseason shooting performance—20 points on perfect shooting in Sioux Falls—the Sky determined she did not fit their roster plans. The decision suggests the franchise prioritizes veteran experience and roster depth in specific positions over unproven draft picks, even those showing strong individual performances in limited action.
Cloud signing signals Sky's emphasis on established backcourt depth
The addition of Natasha Cloud provides the Sky with veteran experience at guard, a position requiring on-court leadership and game management. The concurrent waiver of Van Lith indicates the franchise is building through established players rather than developing draft picks, a strategy emphasizing immediate competitive contribution over long-term development investments.