NWSL First to Restart

All eyes are on NWSL as the first league to restart in the US, women soccer pioneers the challenge of playing in constrained conditions and surreal empty stadiums, as most of European leagues have.
The difference though in these days is that the virus seems a bit more under control in Europe than in the US.
“It hasn’t really been put out there enough — there’s been a lot of social handles that haven’t said the NWSL is the first league back but have talked about all these other leagues besides us,” Portland Thorns midfielder Lindsey Horan said on a conference call Thursday. “It’s really frustrating. I don’t understand that.”
Google has agreed to sponsor the tournament.

NWSL ready for 'big risk, big reward' as first U.S. team sports league to return amid pandemic

The reporter's question wasn't actually about the NWSL being the first team sports league to return in the United States, but Portland Thorns midfielder Lindsey Horan needed to vent.

NWSL Challenge Cup provides good look at future of USWNT

Jun 25, 2020 Bill ConnellyESPN Staff Writer Close Bill Connelly is a staff writer for ESPN.com. On Saturday, the National Women's Soccer League will become the first American team sport to return to action amid the coronavirus pandemic. The league isn't attempting a full season, instead aiming for the NWSL Challenge Cup.

Google To Sponsor NWSLChallenge Cup Starting This Weekend

By Mark J. Burns

Originally published at https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Morning-Buzz/2020/06/26/NWSL.aspx

The NWSL has added Google to its portfolio of sponsors, and the tech giant will sponsor the upcoming eight-team NWSLChallenge Cup, which begins tomorrow in Utah. Terms were not disclosed. It is unclear if the sponsorship extends beyond the tournament. During the Cup, the NWSL will utilize Google Meet to host virtual cheering sections in teams’ home markets and bring them to the event. Google also will share content from the tournament across its social channels. Fans who type "nwsltournament" or "nwsl schedule” into Google Search will see updated scores and standings. Google will be presenting sponsor of the tourney’s Best XI Award.

Google Dir of Global Marketing Partnerships Kate Johnson said, “COVID-19 has impacted women's sports and women's owned businesses especially hard. You can’t become what you cannot see, so we’re proud to help NWSL provide support and visibility in impactful ways.” All matches will be streamed domestically on CBS Sports All Access. Live matches on CBS can be streamed on YouTube TV, too. Twitch has international distribution rights.