PORTLAND, Ore. – Portland Thorns FC today announced that the club has acquired the No. 1 overall pick in the 2016 NWSL College Draft, the first pick in the 2015 Expansion Draft and an international roster spot for the 2016 and 2017 seasons from the Orlando Pride in exchange for forward Alex Morgan and midfielder Kaylyn Kyle. Per league and club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
In three seasons with Thorns FC, Morgan appeared in 36 games (34 starts) during the regular season, registering 15 goals and 11 assists. The U.S. Women’s National Team forward appeared in four games (3 starts) in 2015 as she missed part of the season due to the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup and a knee injury. Morgan helped guide Portland to the inaugural NWSL Championship in 2013, registering eight goals and five assists in 18 matches (all starts) that season.
“On behalf of the Thorns, I would like to thank Alex for her immense contributions both on and off the field during her three seasons with the club; she is a first-class professional and an amazing role model,” said Gavin Wilkinson, general manager of Thorns FC. “By no means did we have plans to trade Alex, but this is a unique situation where we took into account her personal considerations and one that, by virtue of the considerable elements acquired through this trade, will position our club for success in 2016 and beyond.”
Kyle, who was acquired by Thorns FC through the National Team Allocation process in January, made her debut for the club as a second-half substitute in a 1-0 win against the Western New York Flash on April 18. The Canadian international appeared in 12 games (6 starts) for Portland during the 2015 season.
“We would like to thank Kaylyn for her contributions to the Thorns,” said Wilkinson. “She is a consummate professional that showed a strong sense of commitment, professionalism and dedication during her time in Portland.”
The 2015 NWSL Expansion Draft is scheduled for Monday, Nov. 2, at 9 a.m. (Pacific) via conference call.
