Gotham FC signs rising star Khyah Harper to boost NWSL ambitions through 2025 | OneFootball

NJ/NY Gotham FC signed forward Khyah Harper, who made quite a splash at the University of Minnesota. With a deal running through 2025, Harper joins one of the most promising clubs in the NWSL. That expectation is fueled by her highly decorated collegiate career and the potential she carries into the attack.

Impressive collegate soccer stats

Harper's time in the University of Minnesota was a highlight-reel package of statistics. In 68 appearances with the Golden Gophers, she accounted for 20 goals and 14 assists while racking up over 4,200 minutes on the field. The 2024 season was particularly remarkable, featuring 17 goals and two consecutive hat tricks, which made her a national standout.

Harper was also named Big Ten Forward of the Year and a semifinalist for the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy, one of the highest honors in collegiate soccer. Those awards will continue to establish her as a player ready for the professional ranks.

The impact Harper brings to Gotham FC

Harper's arrival presents the unique opportunity for Gotham FC to strengthen their offensive lineup. This signing is another step in continuing the roster renewal process for the club, which aims to balance experience with fresh talent that can contribute now and in the future. Harper will bear the burden of proving that she can be an important factor in the team's pursuit of success in the league.

Career defined by achievements

Even before shining in college soccer, Harper was a phenom in high school. With 134 goals and 71 assists, she was named Gatorade Player of the Year and Metro Player of the Year by the Star Tribune. These are not only testaments to her talent, but also proof that she has been a high-impact player since the beginning of her career.

It has been a continuous upward graph in her growth path. Now, these experiences at varied levels of competition get thrown into the deep: the NWSL.

Transitioning into professional soccer

The transition from college to professional soccer is a challenge that requires more than just talent. The NWSL brings a faster pace and heightened competition, demanding a quick adjustment. Harper arrives with the advantage of a growth-oriented mindset, as evident in her statements upon signing with Gotham FC.

She will be able to experience learning from more mature teammates and then prove her worth in high performance. When Harper can finally bring those two collegiate successes together, she will have all the pieces to really sparkle and make her place in the club.