The 2024 NWSL season is anticipated to showcase vibrant young talent, with USWNT stars and new expansion teams adding excitement. Notable signings include Jessie Fleming, Barbra Banda, and Asisat Oshoala, while the league's expansion and evolving pathways to the pros are key storylines. Reigning champions Gotham FC and San Diego Wave are expected to be strong contenders, with predictions of a championship showdown between them.
The San Diego Wave, a team in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL), has been sold for a record-breaking $120 million to the Levine Leichtman family, nearly double the previous record. The current principal owner, Ron Burkle, will remain in his role through the end of the 2024 season as part of the deal. The new ownership group, comprised of Lauren Leichtman and Arthur Levine, is known for their support of women's soccer and understanding of the league's growth opportunities.
Billionaire Ron Burkle is selling NWSL's San Diego Wave to the Levine Leichtman family in a two-part deal valued at $113 million, with the family paying $35 million for 35% of the team now and agreeing to buy the remaining 65% for $78 million after the 2024 season. Burkle, former owner of the NHL's Pittsburgh Penguins, will maintain control until the second transaction. The sale, approved by league owners, marks the highest ever paid for a control stake in an NWSL team. The deal continues a trend of significant changes in NWSL ownership and reflects the league's growing commercial success.
The National Women's Soccer League playoffs are set to begin, with six teams vying for the championship. The San Diego Wave and Portland Thorns have secured byes as the top two finishers, but face challenges in the playoffs. Each team has strengths and weaknesses that will determine their chances of winning the championship. The Wave's solid defense and home-field advantage could work in their favor, while the Thorns' talented roster and previous championship experience make them contenders. The North Carolina Courage's possession-based style and the OL Reign's veteran players give them a shot at the title. Angel City FC, the hottest team in the league, has momentum on their side, while Gotham FC's fluid attack and strong front line make them a threat.
San Diego Wave has signed 15-year-old forward Melanie Barcenas to a three-year contract, making her the youngest player to sign a professional deal in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Barcenas, a San Diego native, played her youth career with San Diego Surf and spent time in the youth levels of the United States women's national team structure. She has joined the Wave through a new under-18 entry mechanism that allows NWSL teams to place eligible underage players into senior roster spots.
