Sky waive – The WNBA’s New York Sky placed two rookies on waivers and cleared space after adding Natasha Cloud.
New York’s WNBA team has moved quickly to reshape its roster, waiving two recently selected rookies as it navigates the tight deadline period before final roster decisions.
The Sky waived Maddy Westbeld, taken with the No.. 16 pick, and Aicha Coulibaly, selected at No.. 22.. Both were signed to rookie contracts. but they now must clear waivers within the next 48 hours to remain with the organization.. If another team claims their deals, the Sky’s plans for those players could change immediately.
Westbeld appeared in her rookie season with a limited role, averaging 4.1 points in about 13.6 minutes and converting 39.5% of 3-point attempts. Coulibaly, meanwhile, did not play last season while recovering from an ACL injury, though the team had indicated she looked strong during training camp.
This kind of waiver move often signals that teams are trying to balance short-term roster needs with long-term development, especially when returning players and existing contract obligations limit available spots.
The Sky also waived point guard Hailey Van Lith earlier Monday, a step that follows broader changes at the position. With the addition of veteran point guard Natasha Cloud, the organization is now carrying 12 players, which is the maximum allowed.
Among the remaining decisions is guard Sydney Taylor, who was the last training camp invitee. The Sky could still make additional roster moves depending on how waivers play out, even though a deadline-style cut appears to have been within reach for some players.
The waiver process comes amid the Sky’s ongoing injury and recovery timeline.. Courtney Vandersloot is continuing to rehab an ACL injury. and the arrival of Cloud is expected to help with ball-handling responsibilities while that recovery continues.. The team has also looked for improvements on the perimeter. particularly as it aims to bring a more disruptive defensive identity.
With the roster window closing and waivers underway. the next 48 hours could determine who stays in New York and who the Sky must look to replace or retool around.. For fans, that timing matters because development paths and starting-lineup expectations can shift quickly at this stage of the offseason.