WNBA's Natasha Cloud Says ICE and Trump Will 'Learn the Hard Way' If They Come to New York

New York Liberty guard Natasha Cloud has sparked controversy after warning that ICE and US President Donald Trump would 'learn the hard way' if they attempt to bring federal immigration enforcement into New York City. Her comments, made in support of mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani and against Trump's border policies, have ignited national conversation around athlete activism and sanctuary city politics.

Natasha Cloud's Message to ICE and Trump

Cloud's comments were in response to Trump's newly appointed border czar, Tom Homan, who recently pledged that ICE would 'flood the zone' in New York despite the city's sanctuary status. In a post-game interview, Cloud pushed back strongly, stating that the city and its residents would not tolerate federal overreach.

The remarks come amid growing tensions between federal immigration officials and progressive city leaders pushing to block ICE activity. Cloud's stance has placed her at the centre of this conflict, using her platform to challenge both Trump and ICE directly.

Backing Zohran Mamdani and Sanctuary City Values

As reported by Fox News, the Liberty veteran also voiced strong support for Zohran Mamdani, a Democratic Socialist and New York mayoral candidate who has vowed to end ICE operations in the city. She criticised the backlash Mamdani has faced, saying he is targeted not just for his policies but also for his identity as a Muslim and a progressive.

'That's when you know we're getting to them. That's when you know we're creating change that they don't want. That's when you know we're dismantling a system', Cloud said.

She praised Mamdani's commitment to equity and justice, calling him a leader who believes the government's role is to ensure dignity and safety for all, regardless of background or immigration status.

Divided Public Reaction

Cloud's remarks have drawn sharp criticism from conservative outlets and commentators, some accusing her of making threats and promoting division. However, many supporters, particularly from within the WNBA community, applauded her outspokenness and advocacy.

The WNBA has long been recognised for its progressive stance on social justice, with the league's Social Justice Council taking the lead on issues such as police reform, racial equity, and LGBTQ+ rights since 2020. Cloud's statements continue that tradition, amplifying the voice of players beyond the sport.

Leading On and Off the Court

While her political views have sparked debate, Natasha Cloud's stats on the court remains strong. She currently leads the Liberty in assists and plays a crucial role in the team's backcourt. Despite this, she was recently left out of the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, a decision she met with calm determination.

'It doesn't change how I approach this game. If anything, that was just more so for my parents", Cloud said in an interview with the NY Post. 'My job now is just to go out every single night and prove that I am who the f--- I am and that this league continues to look over me'.

Her leadership extends far beyond basketball, making her one of the most visible player-activists in professional sport today.

A Powerful Voice in a Shifting Landscape

Natasha Cloud's warning to ICE and Donald Trump is more than a reaction. It is a statement of solidarity with vulnerable communities and a reminder that athletes are increasingly at the forefront of political resistance. In standing up for New York and for sanctuary city values, Cloud has reinforced her role as a catalyst for change, both on and off the court.