NWSL 2023 Draft: Top Picks and Surprises from the Inaugural Class

The 2023 NWSL Draft marked an exciting new chapter for the league as it welcomed a fresh class of talented players, ready to make their mark. Here’s a rundown of the top picks and some surprising selections.

Top Picks and Instant Impact

• No. 1 overall: Temwa Chawinga, Kansas City Current – The Malawian forward, who scored a joint-league-high 19 goals in 2022, was the clear first choice, and expectations are high for her impact in Kansas City.
• No. 4 overall: Marta, Orlando Pride – Six-time FIFA World Player of the Year Marta was drafted to bolster Orlando’s attack, and fans will eagerly await her return to action after injury.
• No. 6 overall: Barbra Banda, Orlando Pride – The 21-year-old from Zambia showed her class at the 2022 World Cup and will look to build on that form in her new team.

Surprise Picks and Late-Round Gems

• Gotham FC picked No. 17: Esther González, a Spanish forward with a reputation for creativity, in a move that surprised some, given her later selection.
• The Washington Spirit had a busy day, drafting four players, including No. 35: Trinity Rodman, the youngest player ever drafted at No. 2 overall, and No. 95: Leicy Santos, a Colombian international.
• Kansas City Current, the 2022 shield winners, drafted three players, including No. 72: Debinha, a Brazilian international, and two USYNT players, No. 90: Bia Zaneratto and No. 93: Lorena.

Quote of the Day

“Esther’s got incredible qualities, and we’re thrilled to have her. She might not have been drafted higher, but we see her potential and can’t wait to see her in a Gotham shirt.”

Looking Ahead

With the draft concluded, teams will now begin preparing for the 2023 season, hoping to integrate their new signings and challenge for glory in the NWSL. Fans will eagerly await the start of the campaign to see how these new players fare.