Today, the Orlando Pride and Angel City FC announced a blockbuster and record-breaking trade regarding USWNT defender Emily Sams.
The Orlando Pride acquired $650,0000 in intraleague transfer funds from ACFC which is a club record, second highest total in NWSL history, and most ever for a defender.
“Emily requested the opportunity to consider other options, and while she will be missed, we pride ourselves on being a club that supports players’ personal ambitions or choices, on and off the field,” said
Orlando Pride Head Coach Seb Hines. “She leaves a lasting legacy in Orlando and we are grateful for all that she has done for the Club and our community. We wish her nothing but success as she begins this next chapter of her career.”
“I’m incredibly grateful to the Orlando Pride organization for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to grow as a player and a person over the last few years,” said Sams. “The support from the team, staff and fans has meant the world to me, and I’ll always have a huge appreciation for the city of Orlando and this club. I wish the Pride all the best moving forward and am looking forward to my next chapter of my career.”
Sams, 26, was the third overall selection in the 2023 NWSL Draft. She earned 86 appearances (all competitions) and helped the team to its first ever NWSL Shield and Championship in 2024. In that magical season, the team recorded the most clean sheets in a single season (13) and most consecutive minutes without conceding a goal (554).
For Angel City and Sporting Director Mark Parsons, this is a move the team desperately needed to make.
During the 2025 season, ACFC surrendered 41 goals which is tied for third-most in the league.
“Emily is a world class playmaking defender who brings important experience of winning an NWSL Championship to Los Angeles,” said ACFC Sporting Director Mark Parsons. “Emily is a true professional with high standards, and she will add to our team first culture while raising the standard of those around her. We believe our technical staff will be able to push Emily to another level and I am excited to see her impact on and off the field while competing for trophies in the coming years with Angel City.
“Angel City is a club with ambition, purpose, and a clear commitment to excellence, and that’s what drew me here,” said Sams. “I’m excited for the opportunity to keep growing as a player in an environment that pushes standards and believes in winning, while staying deeply connected to its community. It already feels like a family, and I can’t wait to compete for championships in LA and play for the best fan base in the league at BMO Stadium.”
Internationally, Sams has represented the United States at the youth and senior level. In 2024, she received her first USWNT call-up and won the Gold Medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
She made her senior debut on October 27, 2024 in a 3-1 win over Iceland.
