Yesterday, the Portland Thorns selected four players in the 2023 NWSL draft. It was a night of relatively little drama for the Thorns, as they were able to add talented prospects at multiple positions.
In the deepest draft in NWSL history with over 250 players for selection, general manager Karina Leblanc and head coach Mike Norris went in with five picks: no. 5, no. 12, no. 24, no. 36, and no. 48.
Going into the draft, the team was looking to bolster their roster in the hopes of repeating as NWSL Champions. As a theme throughout the draft, they were looking for players that fit their team culture, was able to contribute immediately and be also potentially be a long-term fit.