For the Portland Thorns, lifting the Challenge Cup was just the beginning.
The Thorns won the National Women's Soccer League's preseason tournament in dramatic fashion — on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Gotham — and now turn their attention to the league's ninth season, which opens Saturday. Portland is considered the league favorite.
"We know that when we're us, and we play to our strengths and we do what we can do, then it's going to be really hard for other teams to beat us -- because that's how much we believe in our style, our culture, and the way that we can press and build and score," Portland defender Meghan Klingenberg said.
Beyond the field, change has been everywhere in the NWSL, which has lasted longer than any previous attempt at a top level women's pro league in the country.
The addition of Racing Louisville puts the league at 10 teams for the season. There's more to come as Angel City joins next season with its star-studded ownership group, including tennis star Venus Williams and Oscar winner Natalie Portman.