The National Women's Soccer League is back, and it's bigger than ever. The 14th regular season kicks off Friday with Portland Thorns facing Washington Spirit in a rematch of last year's semi-final. This year, 16 teams will battle through 248 matches, with eight making the playoffs.
The league has grown massively since the pandemic. Two new expansion teams join this season: Boston Legacy and Denver Summit. That brings the total to eight new teams since 2020.
Denver's already making headlines before kicking a ball. Their home opener against Washington on March 28th has sold over 50,000 tickets. That's set to break the NWSL attendance record at Empower Field.
Can The New Teams Compete?
Both Boston and Denver are building purpose-built stadiums, though they're not ready yet. But NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman says it's not just about filling seats. The new teams need to win games too.
Denver brought in Nick Cushing, the former Manchester City Women's manager. They've signed young talent like 20-year-old Jasmine Aikey, last year's top college player. World Cup winner Lindsey Heaps will join from Lyon this summer.
Boston's squad under Filipa Patão mixes international stars with NWSL veterans like goalkeeper Casey Murphy and forward Nichelle Prince. It's an interesting approach that could pay off for bettors looking at sleeper picks.
The league's rapid expansion and the elimination of the college draft make things unpredictable. Without the draft spreading talent around, we might see more concentration of top players on certain teams. That could affect parity long-term.
Star Power Still Matters
Trinity Rodman staying in the US was the off-season's biggest story. Washington broke league records with a reported $2 million contract to keep her. That's a statement about their championship ambitions.
The "Triple Espresso" forward line could be huge for viewership this year. Sophia Smith is back for Portland after maternity leave. Only Mallory Swanson remains sidelined for Chicago. When all three USWNT stars who scored 10 of 12 Olympic goals in Paris are healthy, expect fireworks.
International stars like Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga returning adds another layer. These players have broken records and brought global attention to the league.
Washington Spirit looks like the team to beat. They've finished second two years running and reached the final both times. With Rodman healthy, scary squad depth, and owner Michele Kang willing to spend, this could finally be their year. They've added Haley Carter as president of football operations, bringing championship experience to the front office.
For bettors, Washington represents solid value as favorites. But don't sleep on Portland with Smith back or teams like Kansas City who added 2024 Rookie of the Year Croix Bethune from Washington.
