Utah Ties Shine in 2024 NWSL Draft as BYU Players Make Impressive Debut

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The highly anticipated 2024 NWSL draft is underway, with numerous players from Utah vying for a spot in the prestigious National Women’s Soccer League. A total of 14 players with Utah ties, including eight from BYU, have declared for the draft, hoping to secure a place on one of the league’s 14 teams. With over 200 players registered, the competition is fierce, as only 56 players will have the opportunity to be drafted.

The Utah Royals have the enviable position of holding the first overall pick in the draft. Additionally, they possess a total of nine picks spread across the four rounds, more than any other team this year. This provides a unique opportunity for the Royals to potentially continue the soccer careers of some of the talent with Utah connections in their own backyard.

The draft, set to be broadcast on ION and available for streaming on ION Plus, will commence at 6 p.m. MST on Friday. Soccer enthusiasts and supporters of the draft hopefuls will be glued to their screens, eagerly awaiting the selections that will shape the future of women’s professional soccer in the country.

Among the notable players with Utah ties who have already been selected in the draft’s early rounds are Olivia Smith-Griffitts from BYU, who was picked at number 20 by the Utah Royals, and Olivia Wade-Katoa, also from BYU, who was chosen at number 23 by the Portland Thorns. Kelsey Kaufusi from Utah State University has been drafted by the Portland Thorns as well, selected at number 25.

As the draft progresses, more players with Utah connections will be given the opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially secure a professional contract. The selections made in the later rounds will be equally important, as players like Jamie Shepherd from BYU, who was chosen at number 30 by Bay FC, and Courtney Brown from the University of Utah, picked at number 49 by the Washington Spirit, continue to chase their dreams.

Overall, the 2024 NWSL draft presents a crucial moment for these players with Utah ties. It is a chance for them to prove themselves and demonstrate their capabilities on a national stage. As the proceedings unfold and teams make their picks, the spotlight will shine on these individuals as they hope to make a lasting impact in the world of professional women’s soccer.

In conclusion, the 2024 NWSL draft is underway, and 14 players with Utah connections have declared for the event. With only 56 players set to be drafted from over 200 registered participants, the competition is tough. The Utah Royals, with their coveted first overall pick and nine total picks, have the opportunity to shape the upcoming season. Excitement fills the air as the draft unfolds, showcasing the immense talent and potential these players possess.