The Olympic break is drawing to a close, the Summer Cup final is set (for October), we’re in a short season of fun international friendlies before the NWSL regular season recommences, and it’s time to start getting excited for the next phase of the NWSL season!
While a number of players have been making names for themselves this season, here are five players (who didn’t head to Paris this summer) to start following in the NWSL.
Summer Yates
As a second-year player on a star-studded squad that’s been on such a hot streak, Summer Yates is more often than not starting for the Pride, and we need to talk about it. Yates has four goals on the season so far, has played all around the midfield, filling the space where she’s needed, and just signed a new contract in July that will keep her in Orlando at least through 2025.
On a team with the likes of Marta, Barbra Banda, Adriana, and Ally Watt, Yates’ four goals ranks her third on the team for goals scored. If Orlando is able to keep things moving in the same direction this second half of the season, Yates’ comfort in carrying the ball and ability to score when her opportunities have been limited should be on display.
Hannah Betfort
Hannah Betfort’s xG according to FBref is 3.5, and yet she hasn’t scored a single goal in the regular season. With two goals in the Summer Cup, one against Tijuana and one against Portland, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Betfort carry this form back into the regular season and finally start finishing her chances. Utah’s got the opportunity to redeem this season and with interim Head Coach Jimmy Coenraets taking over for Amy Rodriguez, things are starting to look up.
Tess Boade
With 14 starts and 16 appearances, as Bay FC continues to figure things out in their first season, Tess Boade has shown the grit and versatility needed to remain in Albertin Montoya’s lineup, filling whatever role is handed to her. Playing across the forward and midfield lines, Boade is a player with a great understanding of space that has been integral to Bay’s offensive, high-pressing style. Her speed with the ball at her feet is underrated and her ability to exert influence on the game will likely be key if Bay is to make a run to the playoffs.
Makenna Morris
In her first start with the Spirit, Morris had a goal, an assist, and drew a PK that Trinity Rodman converted. Despite missing most of the earlier stages of the season with injury, it’s obvious the chemistry that’s already been built this season amongst the team and within the Spirit’s class of rookies. It would be easy to discount Morris’ stellar performance as beginner’s luck, but with the way the first year players have put on a show in DC in 2024, that seems unlikely.
In anticipation of player rotation with Spirit starters coming back from a long run at the Olympic games, keep an eye on Makenna Morris.
Ella Stevens
Ella Stevens has been putting in the work all season and we can’t look away. Beyond just her goals and assists, she’s providing excellent service and creating chances with a joy and freedom that highlights the cohesion of this Gotham team as much as it does Stevens’ individual excellence.
If you haven’t already, Ella Stevens is undoubtedly a player you should be paying attention to in this second half of the season stretch – and with Gotham’s inclusion in the CONCACAF W Champions Cup, you’ll have even more opportunities to see what she can do this fall.