The Deseret News is tracking Utah connections involved in the 2024 NWSL draft. Check back for updates.
Fourteen players with Utah connections — including eight from BYU — declared for Friday’s National Women’s Soccer League draft.
Players will try to earn a roster spot on one of the league’s 14 teams and then continue their soccer career in the nation’s top professional women’s soccer league. More than 200 players registered for the draft, but only 56 players will be drafted.
With the first overall pick, the Utah Royals hold a total of nine picks through the four rounds of the draft — more than any other team this year. The team could offer any of the 14 players with Utah ties a chance to continue their football careers in the Beehive State.
The draft will be broadcast on ION beginning at 6 p.m. MST Friday and can be streamed on ION Plus.
Round 1
Round 2
- Olivia Smith-Griffiths: Pick No. 20, Utah Royals, BUA.
- Olivia Wade-All: Pick No. 23, Portland Thorns, BYU.
- Kelsey Kaufusi: Pick No. 25, Portland Thorns, USU.
Round 3
- Jamie Shepherd: Pick No. 30, Bay FC, BYU.
Round 4
- Courtney Brown: Pick No. 49, Spirit of Washington, University of Utah.
- Laveni Vaca: Pick No. 55, Bay FC, BYU.
Undrafted players in the 2024 NWSL draft with Utah ties
The following BYU players declared for the draft:
- Beautiful Folino.
- Rachel McCarthy.
- Eli Boren
The following Utah State players declared for the draft:
The following Utah Valley University players have declared for the draft:
- Heather Steinbrook.
- Jenna Shepherd.
The following players attended high school in Utah:
- Emily Jensen (East High) – Saint Mary’s College of California.