The 2023 NWSL Draft was a special night. The atmosphere inside the convention was fantastic, with people back in person for the first time in three years. As always, there were some blockbuster trades, heartwarming moments, and plenty of drama to go with it. Here’s an in-depth recap of the 2023 NWSL Draft.
The first round had tons of talent. Teams traded a lot to secure the players they wanted.
The first round of the 2023 @NWSL Draft is in the books 📚
Which of these players are you most excited to watch? pic.twitter.com/ejnDURJfpw
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) January 13, 2023
Alyssa Thompson went No. 1 to Angel City, as everyone expected. The 17-year-old starlet will stay close to home and become the franchise’s future. While this is huge for the club, their desire to win now by giving up draft picks could come back to hurt them down the line if a rebuild is needed.
Gotham FC made a blockbuster deal, trading the No. 2 pick to Kansas City in exchange for Lynn Williams. At pick No. 4, Gotham was then able to select Jenna Nighswonger. With her and Lynn Williams going with Midge Purce, Gotham’s attack went to another level.
Kansas City elected to trade away an aging star in Williams to get their striker and a…
