Regarding collective achievements, one cannot take away from the individual inputs that hold the team together. In 2024, the NWSL acknowledged what Orlando Pride and their fans already knew: the backbone of the defense, Emily Sams. She was named Defender of the Year. Sams was not only crucial to Pride's historic season but also set new standards for defensive excellence in the league.
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Emily Sams' Standout Numbers
The stats point out the dominance of Emily Sams this season. She not only led the Orlando Pride but also featured amongst the best in the NWSL in many key defensive metrics. She secured the second spot in the league with 163 recoveries. On top of that, she led her team in defensive third possessions: 108 actions, 76 clearances, and 16 blocks highlight a defender that doesn't just protect the backline; she commands it.
Her 88.18% passing accuracy, best among Pride defenders, further underscores her value. Sams isn't just a stopper; she's a critical link in transitioning the team's play from defense to attack. Starting in 24 of 25 matches over the course of the season, Sams was a constant presence in all 13 of Pride's shutouts, an NWSL-leading mark.
The Fortress Built Behind Sams
Anchored by Emily Sams in central defense, the Pride let in just 20 goals in the regular season, matching the best defensive record in the league. Here's the incredible part: just one of those goals was conceded after the 75th minute. That stat speaks to a team that knew how to stay composed into the final whistle, in large part because of Sams' leadership and defensive organization.
This defensive consistency was a cornerstone of Pride's record-breaking 24-game unbeaten streak, including eight straight wins. That kind of resilience doesn't just put the team at the top of the standings; it also redefines what excellence looks like in U.S. women's soccer.