Portland Thorns news roundup: Reilyn Turner's dream USWNT debut, Olivia Moultrie shines, Carolyn Calzada signs, and key stats for NRIs

Hometown USWNT Debut

After receiving multiple call-ups to the USWNT U-23 squad in 2025, Reilyn Turner earned her first ever senior national team call-up in 2026.

Emma Hayes rewarded the forward's 2025 campaign with the start against Paraguay in her hometown of Los Angeles.

Turner was dangerous throughout her debut. She had multiple shots on goal in the first-half alone - ending with three total shots.

However, if you thought that was enough for the Portland Thorns forward... you'd be wrong.

In the last seconds of first half stoppage time, Turner's lifelong dream came true.

In front of her family, friends, and loved ones, Reilyn Turner scored her first international goal - a storybook debut.

"I honestly can't put into words how I'm feeling right now. I'm so grateful to even get this opportunity to play. I'm so grateful my family's here. Beyond words, I can't describe it."

After signing an extension through 2028, could the forward have a breakout 2026 season?

Olivia Moultrie shines

Who assisted Turner's goal? None other than her Rose City teammate.

Liv Moultrie shined throughout the match and was instrumental in the first three goals for the USWNT.

The winger/midfielder also took corner kicks, sharing that responsibility with KC Current's Izzy Rodriguez.

She played the entire 90 minutes in the 6-0 win.

Former Notre Dame and Texas A&M Defender headed to the Rose City

On Thursday, the Portland Thorns announced that they have signed Carolyn Calzada to a two-year contract with mutual option for 2028.

“Carolyn is a dominant defender that can provide important cover while defending spaces,” President and General Manager of Soccer Operations Jeff Agoos said. “In addition to her dominance in aerial duels and versatility in the backline, her leadership qualities will be a valuable addition as we continue to construct a competitive roster that aims to compete for a championship.”

Calzada started all 72 matches in college, with 54 at Texas A&M, and the final 18 at Notre Dame. She tallied seven assists in her four NCAA seasons.

More Stats for NRIs

Laila Booker - Defender | Yale/Georgia

Sydney Cheesman - Defender | North Carolina/LSU

Jennie Immethun - Midfielder/Defender | LMU/TCU/UCLA

Riley Gleason - Midfielder | Penn State

Renee Lyles - Midfielder | Clemson

What stands out the most?

Jennie Immethun being listed as a midfielder for the Portland Thorns is a bit of a head-scratcher when she has not played there since early in college. Immethun was rated as the No. 3 center back and No. 18 overall player by TopDrawerSoccer. Could she still see reps in defense alongside midfield in training camp? Absolutely.

Laila Booker at 5'11" has been tremendous in defense, especially in the air. She won 82.4% of her aerial duels and overall won 80.8% of her duels - that is exceptional and proves Booker can impose her size and will on attackers.

Riley Gleason at defensive midfielder is definitely one to look out for in preseason.

Catch up on the offseason

Top Portland Thorns head coaching candidates

Who are a few names to look out for in the Portland Thorns’ head coaching search?

Stumptown FootyPhuoc Nguyen (Fook Win)

The Portland Thorns No. 1 offseason priority - Center Back: Top 10 Potential Options

The Portland Thorns’ front office have a busy offseason ahead of them, but there’s one position they’ll likely make the top priority: center back. Here are 10 potential CBs they could look to add.

Stumptown FootyPhuoc Nguyen (Fook Win)

12 potential options for Portland Thorns after Sam Coffey’s departure

With Sam Coffey officially in Manchester City blue, who could the Thorns turn to as replacements?

Stumptown FootyPhuoc Nguyen (Fook Win)