December 12, 2023 – National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) – Portland Thorns FC News Release
PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC have received expansion draft protection from Utah Royals FC in exchange for forward Hannah Betfort, the 33rd overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft and $10,000 in allocation money, the club announced today.
“We would like to thank Hannah for her years of contribution to the Thorns over the last three seasons. On and off the field, she was a joy to have as part of our locker room and beloved by our fans,” shared Thorns FC General Manager and President of Soccer Operations Karina LeBlanc. “Hannah has a bright future ahead, and we came to an agreement that this is a great opportunity for her growth as a player and person. We wish her the absolute best in her future.”
Betfort, 24, was selected by Portland as the 37th overall pick in the 2021 NWSL Draft out of Wake Forest University. In three seasons with the club, Betfort tallied five goals and one assist in 29 appearances (10 starts) for Thorns FC. Betfort helped Portland claim the 2022 NWSL Championship, 2021 NWSL Shield and the 2021 WICC in her time with the club.
The NWSL Expansion Draft will take place on December 15 with the two expansion teams, Bay FC and the Utah Royals, selecting players from teams’ respective rosters. Thorns FC are now exempt from any players being selected in the draft by either team.
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