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SJU Product Natasha Cloud Enjoying Life In WNBA

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Natasha Cloud enjoyed an outstanding college career at St. Joseph's University, finishing her time on Hawk Hill 3rd all-time in program history in assists (582), 16th in rebounds (535) and 20th in points (1,049). The Cardinal O'Hara High School product and Broomall native accomplished all of this in just three seasons after transferring over from Maryland.

Cloud's time with the Hawks caught the attention of the WNBA's Washington Mystics and last year they drafted her in the second round. Here in 2016, Cloud is enjoying her second year as a pro and says she has learned a lot.

"Last year, especially as a point guard, you need to know the ins and outs of the game, so my head was definitely spinning last year," Cloud tells KYW Newsradio. "But year two, I'm more comfortable in our offense. I know why we're running things. I know game schemes and game plans now. So I'm definitely a lot more comfortable. A lot more comfortable with leading the team, being able to put people in the positions they need to be in as well as having a little bit more of a scoring role and a bigger defensive role."

Listen to the entire interview with SJU product Natasha Cloud:

 

This season Cloud is tied for the team lead in assists per game for the Mystics (2.8), while averaging 5.1 points and 3.0 rebounds a game. She's both started and come off the bench for the Mystics.

"I'm happy either way," Cloud says. "Starting, off the bench, third point guard in, whatever it is. I just want to be able to contribute in any way shape or form that I can to this team. Doesn't really matter when or how much time, as long as I can contribute and contribute in a positive way."

Cloud credits her time on Hawk Hill with helping make her both the player and person she is today.

"St. Joe's taught me a lot," Cloud says. "I think it taught me a lot more off the court things than on the court.

"Just be a good person," Cloud continues. "Try to be better every day, be there for other people, be more than what you expect yourself to be. So I think that plays into me off the court. Then on the court, St. Joe's gave me the platform to get to where I am today. So I am always thankful for that. St. Joe's and all the coaches before that as well that have given me the platform to be where I am today. So, beyond thankful and humble for everyone, especially St. Joe's."

Cloud and the Mystics return to action on Tuesday night when they visit the Connecticut Sun.

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