Sport executives play a crucial yet often overlooked role in achieving victory. They’re not just tasked with building teams; they’re also responsible for retaining and managing talent to ensure success. In a tightly competitive league like the WNBA, crafting the ideal mix of players resembles a game of chess rather than just arranging a roster. It’s about blending skills, personalities, and ensuring ample depth to take on the top talent consistently.
The New York Liberty might have stumbled upon the right mix with their 2025 roster. This is a significant statement considering their current championship status, but some believe this year’s lineup could outperform last year’s. For Jonathan Kolb, the general manager, the ability to enhance a championship-worthy team speaks to the strategic gamesmanship he’s practiced for years.
Kolb has been a part of the Liberty since they came under Joe and Clara Tsai’s ownership in 2019, contributing significantly to the franchise’s success. It began with drafting Sabrina Ionescu, signing Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, and appointing Sandy Brondello as head coach. Following that, he secured John Quell Jones and Brenna Stewart, setting the stage for the 2023 WNBA season. His efforts culminated in the 2024 WNBA Championship, but it seems his most impressive maneuver may be yet to come in 2025.
This year, he managed to convince the Connecticut Sun to trade Natasha Cloud to the Liberty. This decision seems to benefit both on and off the court. Cloud revealed that she nearly signed with Liberty after becoming a free agent in 2024 but eventually joined New York at the right moment. Even when she was with the Washington Mystics, fans honored her with a standing ovation after an intense playoff series a few seasons back. The developing relationship between Cloud and the Liberty highlights Kolb’s acumen for identifying talents that blend seamlessly with an already strong team.
Though Cloud hails from Philadelphia, she’s won over New York fans with her tenacity and vibrant personality. Until the WNBA includes a Philadelphia team in the future, it seems New York has wholeheartedly embraced her.
Cloud embodies what the Liberty needed this season: a seasoned and dynamic point guard who can score and influence the game’s pace. She’s strengthened the Liberty’s defense while providing assists, understanding the balance between facilitating plays and making shots. She’s already enjoying a standout season in New York and earned her first Eastern Conference Player of the Week award in May.
While Cloud’s 10 points per game may not catch the eye of casual observers, her contributions extend well beyond mere scoring, playing a vital role in New York’s undefeated season start. Her defensive rating stands at an impressive 87.7, indicating effective gameplay against opponents. If you’re not that into statistics, simply know this places her in the 98th percentile across the league.
Cloud’s advanced statistics offer further insight into her value, showing she doesn’t drop below the 84th percentile in any metric, marking the best performance for a veteran in the league. Currently, she ranks fifth overall for total win shares, a statistic estimating the number of wins a player contributes to a team through performance.
Beyond numbers, Cloud’s influence within the Liberty transcends the game. With her positive demeanor and energetic approach, she seems to uplift her teammates, spreading joy in New York. She has even taken time to create TikTok videos with the Liberty Kid Dance Crew, engaging with fans and taking photos, winning the hearts of players, staff, and supporters alike.
So, what does this mean for Jonathan Kolb? Quite a bit. His efforts over the years have culminated in bringing talent like Cloud to New York. Regardless of whether or not they secure another championship, he deserves recognition, possibly even a second executive trophy for this particular achievement.
