In a surprising turn of events, Natasha “Tasha” Cloud, the seasoned WNBA guard currently playing for the Connecticut Sun, has announced her commitment to join the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball coaching staff. This move marks a significant transition from her illustrious playing career to a promising coaching journey.
Cloud, born on February 22, 1992, in Broomall, Pennsylvania, has been a formidable presence in the WNBA since being drafted by the Washington Mystics in 2015. Over her nine-year tenure in the league, she has earned accolades including a WNBA championship in 2019 and multiple All-Defensive Team selections. Her leadership on the court, characterized by her defensive prowess and playmaking abilities, has been widely recognized.
Her decision to join South Carolina reunites her with Dawn Staley, the esteemed head coach of the Gamecocks. The two share a history, with Cloud having received the Dawn Staley Community Leadership Award in 2019, an honor bestowed upon WNBA players who exhibit exceptional community service and leadership qualities. citeturn0search0
In her announcement, Cloud expressed her enthusiasm for the new role:
“I am beyond excited to embark on this new chapter with Coach Staley and the University of South Carolina. Basketball has given me so much, and now it’s time to give back by mentoring and developing the next generation of athletes.”
Coach Staley also shared her thoughts on Cloud’s addition to the staff:
“Natasha brings a wealth of experience and a champion’s mindset. Her commitment to excellence, both on and off the court, aligns perfectly with our program’s values. We’re thrilled to have her join our coaching family.”
Throughout her career, Cloud has been more than just an athlete; she has been a vocal advocate for social justice and community engagement. In 2020, she made the bold decision to sit out the WNBA season to focus on social justice initiatives, demonstrating her dedication to effecting positive change beyond basketball. citeturn0search7
Her transition into coaching is seen by many as a natural progression, given her leadership qualities and deep understanding of the game. Fans and analysts alike anticipate that her influence will significantly benefit the Gamecocks, a program already renowned for its competitive spirit and success in women’s college basketball.
As Cloud prepares to don the coach’s attire, the basketball community watches with great interest, eager to see the impact she will undoubtedly make in shaping future stars of the sport.