In this week’s episode of The IX Sports Podcast, host Kathleen Gier talks about two blockbuster NWSL moves involving Croix Bethune to the Kansas City Current and Claire Hutton to Bay FC. She also discusses the Coachella Valley Invitational and the USWNT’s roster for the SheBelieves Cup.
“Both got million-plus dollar transfer fees in the NWSL, where we are seeing those numbers just become normal, and I love that, especially for these two really young stars who just look like they have so much potential,” Gier said of the monumental transfers, which are now the second and third largest intraleague trades in the league’s history.
“A lot of eyes will be on both of these players this year, especially as the first few weeks move along with their new squads,” Gier added. “And I feel like one of the words we’re kind of developing as a theme of this show is autonomy. And I think these are two great examples. I hope that we’re able to look back on of players getting comfortable in this league, showing their potential, and then being able to kind of shop around and find that team that really fits them, fits the style that they want to play, and fits just where they are in their careers. And I think that’s going to be something really interesting to watch as we continue having players move in and out of this league.”
She then looks at the Coachella Valley Invitational, which began on Feb. 7 and included eight NWSL teams competing this past weekend. The event will continue on Feb. 21.
Lastly, Gier discusses the 26-player USWNT roster for the 2026 SheBelieves Cup, which starts March 1, and shares her thoughts on the selections. “I think over the year, we’ll have Emma [Hayes] continue to kind of narrow down this group, or find probably more consistent starters, at least out of that group.”
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