The NWSL's 14th season kicks off Friday, and it's shaping up to be the biggest yet. We've got 16 teams battling through 248 matches, with two exciting expansion sides joining the party. Let's break down what you need to know before the action starts.
Boston Legacy and Denver Summit are the new kids on the block. They're part of a massive growth spurt that's seen eight teams join since COVID-19 hit. The league isn't messing around anymore—both new teams had to commit to purpose-built stadiums and training facilities just to get in.
Denver's already making noise. Their home opener against Washington Spirit on March 28th has sold over 50,000 tickets. That's set to smash the NWSL attendance record. The buzz is real, but NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman made it clear: these teams need to be competitive on the field, not just in ticket sales.
Denver's hired Nick Cushing, the former Manchester City Women's boss, and they've built a young squad. They've also landed World Cup winner Lindsey Horan, who'll join from Lyon mid-season. Boston went a different route with former Benfica manager Filipa Patão and a mix of international talent plus NWSL veterans like goalkeeper Casey Murphy.
Can the League Stay Competitive?
Here's where things get interesting for anyone thinking about season-long bets. The NWSL ditched its draft system—they're the first major US sports league to do it. No more spreading top college players around to weaker teams. This season is only the second without it.
Seven of 2025's top college players signed with NWSL teams, but only two joined teams that missed the playoffs last year. That could mean the rich get richer, but the league's had wild swings before. Gotham finished dead last in 2022, then won the championship in 2023. Can that still happen? We're about to find out.
Star Power Still Matters
Trinity Rodman staying in the US was massive. Washington Spirit broke league records with a reported $2 million deal to keep her. That's the kind of money that shows the NWSL means business.
The "Triple Espresso"—Rodman, Sophia Smith, and Mallory Swanson—scored 10 of Team USA's 12 Olympic goals in Paris. Smith's back from maternity leave with Portland, and once Swanson returns to Chicago, this attacking trio could light up the league. For entertainment value and betting angles, keep a close eye on when these three are healthy and playing.
Plenty of US stars have headed to Europe recently, but the NWSL still has depth. And let's not forget international stars like Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga who've broken records stateside.
So who wins it all? Washington Spirit looks like the smart pick. They've finished second in the regular season two years running and made the final both times. With Rodman fit, scary squad depth, and an owner willing to spend, this could finally be their year. They've added championship-winning executive Haley Carter too, which shows they're serious about getting over the line.
With expansion, star power, and wide-open competition, this NWSL season promises drama from kickoff to the final whistle. Whether you're watching for entertainment or looking for betting value, there's plenty to get excited about.
