4 Reasons that Make this NWSL Draft Epic
A new year is upon us, and one of the most important days of the year is already near! With the holidays over, some may think, what else is there to look forward to? The 2023 NWSL Draft, of course!
Next stop: 2023 #NWSL Draft, presented by @ally!
🗓️ January 12
📍 Philadelphia— National Women’s Soccer League (@NWSL) November 15, 2022
This year’s draft, which takes place on January 12th in Philadelphia, is guaranteed to be something special. Besides the fact that there are already over 100 players who have joined the draft so far, throw in all the major updates that happened in the NWSL last year alone, and you’ve got yourself some good watching. Here are a few reasons that make this year’s NWSL draft epic!
First draft under new CBA
One of the biggest differences between this year’s draft and those prior is that the NWSL entered a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with its players early last year. As a result, players drafted this year will sign directly with the NWSL club, receive a higher minimum salary, and more. This obviously has made a huge impact on the draft if the high number of players who have entered is any indication.
In-person draft returns with new Commissioner
The recent pandemic changed the way previous drafts took place, forcing them to be held through video conferencing. It’s the perfect year for the draft to return to being in-person again, with Jessica Berman as NWSL Commissioner. This will be the first draft she leads in her new role, and it will be nice to see some normalcy return this year with everyone in the same room!
View this post on Instagram
Unknown first pick
Unlike prior years, there doesn’t seem to be a unanimous decision on who could be selected first, although many speculate Angel City will pick Alyssa Thompson. While there are some prospects, whoever it ends up being has a lot to live up to, considering the success rate of the number-one picks from prior years. Last year’s first pick, Naomi Girma, won the Rookie of the Year award, while the number one draft pick in 2020, Sophia Smith, won MVP last year.
View this post on Instagram
New Under-18 entry rules
Ahead of the draft, the NWSL introduced a new entry procedure for players under the age of 18 who want to enter the league. Players will be placed on an Under-18 entry list to be selected following a set of criteria.
According to the NWSL, players must be signed to a guaranteed contract within 30 days, and the contract term must run through the season they turn 18. In addition, teams are limited to two players under 18, and players will occupy a full roster spot. It will be interesting to see how these new procedures impact this year’s draft and those following.
I hope you are as ready as I am to tune in to the 2023 NWSL Draft! Only 48 players will be selected through four rounds, so grab your popcorn and settle into a comfy spot to watch!
Featured image via Getty Images
_
GIRLS SOCCER NETWORK: YOUR SOURCE FOR GIRLS SOCCER NEWS
Girls Soccer Network
Your source for girls soccer news
