Phoenix – Natasha Cloud’s Big Night
At the start of Sunday night’s overtime, Natasha Cloud orchestrated a play with John Kel Jones, signaling her intentions with a few gestures. After making a couple of strides to the right, she spotted the nearest Mercury defender out of position. Kahleah Copper effectively blocked her way, allowing Cloud an open shot from behind the arc. She took the opportunity, hitting a three-pointer that propelled her team into a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
“I know who I am in these moments,” Cloud mentioned confidently. “When the spotlight hits, I come alive. It’s as simple as that.”
Cloud truly shined that night, leading all players with 23 points and setting a personal season record with nine field goals. Her efforts were crucial in helping the Liberty overcome her former team, securing a 76-69 victory in Game 1 of their first-round series.
Interestingly, Cloud’s three-pointer in overtime mirrored an earlier one she made in the first quarter, which kept the pressure on Phoenix’s defense.
Beyond scoring, Cloud recorded six rebounds, five assists, and four steals, effectively challenging Copper, a player she knows well.
“I love it,” she said with a slight grin. “The competition drives the game to be better. It’s a challenge that I really enjoy. Coming from Philadelphia, it’s a direct face-off.”
The second quarter featured back-and-forth action between Cloud and Copper. There was a point when Cloud fouled Copper, who responded with an impressive shot. Cloud returned that energy, celebrating her own success with a three-point play shortly after.
Post-game, Copper reflected on their matchup, calling it a “great battle.” Cloud, too, embraced the challenge, admitting it was fun to compete with someone who brought out her best game.
“We talked after the game. She said, ‘Girl, we need to have a chat,’ and it was all in good spirit. We’re tough on the court, but there’s always love and respect for each other,” Cloud explained.
Despite the intensity, Cloud rejected the notion that it was a revenge game against the Mercury, the team that traded her last offseason. She and Mercury coach Nate Tibbets had smoothed things over earlier in the season when the Liberty visited Phoenix.
For Cloud, Sunday night was nostalgic. Growing up in Philadelphia, she often envisioned these kinds of moments—counting down to a crucial shot in her driveway. “I thrive in these situations because, as a competitor, these are the moments you’ve always dreamed of,” she said, embodying the spirit of a true athlete.
