The last time I caught a glimpse of the NWSL, it was something special—over a million viewers tuned in. That was during last November’s championship game, where Gotham FC narrowly defeated the Washington Spirit, 1-0. A lone goal captured on a Rose LaBelle poster told the story.
Gotham clinched the title for the second time in three years, despite being the lowest seed in the playoffs. But, as star player Jadyn Shaw humorously pointed out, they feel like the “underdogs, they suck.”
As the league gears up for its most ambitious season yet, it’s hard to believe how much it has grown since its inception in 2013. The NWSL now features 16 teams, and the influx of seven-figure free agents has certainly raised the stakes. One standout aspect is the push for equality, with games consistently scheduled on Saturdays.
So, what to look out for in this exciting new season starting Friday night?
Rodman Rules
All eyes in the NWSL offseason were on whether Trinity Rodman would remain with the Washington Spirit. With other stars like Naomi Girma and Alyssa Thompson making their way to England, many began to speculate on Rodman’s future.
In the end, she decided to sign a record-breaking three-year deal worth over $2 million annually. This deal was made possible by the High Impact Player Rule—also dubbed the “Rodman Rule”—which allows teams to exceed salary caps for particularly marketable players.
But can she deliver on the pitch, especially given her struggles with chronic back pain?
Expansion Pack
New teams, Boston Legacy and Denver Summit, have officially joined the NWSL. Boston invested $53 million for expansion, which quickly ballooned to $110 million for Denver.
Boston, with goaltender Casey Murphy, will split home games between Foxboro (Gillette Stadium) and Pawtucket during renovations at White Stadium.
Meanwhile, Denver has brought back U.S. Women’s National Team captain Lindsey Heaps for the start of the season. Over 50,000 tickets have already been sold for their home opener on March 28 at Mile High Stadium.
Atlanta is also set to join in 2028, with Columbus being tossed around as a potential addition for the 18th team.
Current Events
The Kansas City Current dominated last season with an impressive 21-2-3 record, accumulating 65 points, yet they fell to Gotham in the playoff quarterfinals.
This led to some changes, including the hiring of MLS veteran Cris Armas as coach and the acquisition of Croix Bethune in a significant offseason trade to shake up the midfield.
Golden Boot winner Temwa Chawinga, who netted 15 goals last year, will lead the team’s efforts. However, overcoming playoff challenges remains a question.
Espresso Shot
In addition to Rodman’s return, the NWSL seems primed for some excitement this season. Portland Thorns forward Sophia Wilson and Chicago Stars forward Mallory Swanson, both members of the celebrated USWNT’s Triple Espresso offense, are set to make their comeback after giving birth to their first children.
Both teams could definitely benefit from this added firepower, considering Portland’s recent changes in coaching and the Stars’ position at the bottom of the league.
California Dreamin
The situation hasn’t been ideal for the three California teams lately.
The San Diego Wave, after a strong start in 2022, are facing troubles, including misconduct allegations within the front office. While key players like Delfin Cascarino and Kylen Sheridan have stepped up, reinforcements like Ludmila and Gabi Portillo from Gotham could be on the horizon.
Angel City has struggled with numbers despite its high-profile branding and is currently going through a rebuild following Thompson’s exit, with Emily Sams coming in to strengthen the defense.
Bay FC is in a similar situation, with coach Emma Coates looking to reset the team dynamic. The addition of 20-year-old midfielder Claire Hutton shows promise for the future.
Prediction
Champion: Washington
Shield Winner: Kansas City
MVP: Emma Sears, Louisville
Rookie of the Year: Jordyn Dudley, Gotham
