The Premier Hockey Federation offseason is in full swing. While the Buffalo Beauts made headlines with their history-making signing of Mikyla Grant-Mentis, other teams also are wheeling and dealing in preparation for the upcoming season.

Just Women’s Sports will be keeping track of who signs where as rosters continue to fill out.

Wednesday, August 10 — Montreal continues to bolster roster with five more player signings

Montreal has signed five more players, bringing its total to 16, the expansion franchise announced.

Three of the signings have spent the past season in the PWHPA: goaltender Marie-Soleil Deschênes, who spent three seasons in the PWHPA and two in the CWHL, as well as defender Kaity Howarth and forward Samantha Isbell. Isbell spent two seasons with the PWHPA’s Montreal chapter.

Alyssa Holmes joins the team from the University of Vermont. The forward is originally from Ontario and is tied for the single season program record in assists at 23.

Brooke Stacey became the first player to sign with Montreal from another team in the PHF. Stacey previously spent time with the Buffalo Beauts, which included an All-Star rookie campaign.

Thursday, August 4 — Montreal announces four more signings, Riveters add Leah Marino

Montreal announced Thursday that it has brought its roster to 11 players with the signings of Catherine Dubois, Catherine Daoust, Christine Deaudelin and Tricia Deguire.

Dubois and Daoust have each spent past seasons in the PWHPA. Daoust is a defender who also spent time with the CWHL’s Montreal Canadiennes during the 2018-19 season. Dubois, meanwhile, is a seasoned forward who also has won two gold medals with Canada’s U18 team.

Deaudelin joins Daoust on the blue line, following a career as an accomplished defender for the University of Ottawa. Deguire, meanwhile, will appear between the pipes for Montreal as one of two goaltenders.

The Riveters, meanwhile, filled out its forward group Thursday with the signing of former Toronto forward Leah Marino to a one-year deal.

Marino was a rookie last season after being chosen 16th overall in the 2021 draft. The youngest player to be selected in league history, she recorded four points through 20 games.

“I chose to sign with the Riveters this season because I felt they are really striving to reach a certain level of professionalism that is so badly needed on the women’s side of the game,” said Marino. “The entire organization knows what they want to accomplish this season and are already actively putting things into place to make that happen.”

Wednesday, August 3 — Anna Klein to remain in Minnesota, signs with Whitecaps

Former Minnesota-Duluth captain Anna Klein signed with her hometown team on Wednesday on a one-year deal. The Edina native helped her team to the Frozen Four final this past season and graduated as program’s the all-time leader in games played with 165.

“I decided to sign with the Whitecaps because I’ve always played hockey in Minnesota and can’t imagine going anywhere else,” Klein said on her decision to sign with the Whitecaps. “I’ve been following along on social media and watching every game I could since they started, they have a great program that I’m so excited to be a part of.”

Tuesday, August 2 — Corinne Schroeder signs with Pride, Beauts re-sign Samantha Fieseler

Collegiate standout Corinne Schroeder became the first goaltending signing for Boston this offseason, with the former Boston University standout signing a one-year deal.

Schroeder spent las season at Quinnipiac University, recording 15 wins, six shutouts and a 1.44 goals against average as well as a .951 save percentage.

Samantha Fieseler opted to re-sign with Buffalo on a one-year deal. Playing in 18 of 20 games last season, she had three blocked shots and five takeaways.

Monday, August 1 — Pride re-sign Isobel Cup Playoff MVP Taylor Wenczkowski

Boston re-signed Taylor Wenczkowski to a one-year deal Monday after she was drafted by the team in the 2020 draft. A big returner for the Pride, she scored the game-winning goal for the team in each of the last two Isobel Cup championship finals, a feat that earned her playoff MVP honors last season.

Thursday, July 28 — NCAA star forward Élizabeth Giguère signs with Boston, SDHL standout Ronja Mogren signs with Minnesota

Clarkson University forward Élizabeth Giguère signed a one-year deal with the Boston Pride. The Quebec native is no stranger to winning, having scored the overtime winner in the 2018 NCAA championship game. In 2020, she won the Patty Kazmaier award after being named a finalist one year prior.

Through 137 games, she tallied 233 points to become Clarkson’s all-time leading scorer.

She spent her fifth year at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, adding 62 points to bring her career total to 295 — which ranks sixth all-time in NCAA Division I history.

SDHL veteran standout Ronja Mogren signed with Minnesota on a one-year deal. The 21-year-old has spent four seasons in the SDHL, as well as last season in the SWHL.

“What stood out with Ronja is her appetite to learn and grow as a player. She is here to develop and become the best hockey player she can,” Whitecaps coach Ronda Engelhardt said. “She has great size and speed and will be able to help add to our offensive speed this season.”

Wednesday, July 27 — Metropolitan Riveters add Olympic defender Sarah Forster, Toronto signs Kati Tabin

Three-time Olympian Sarah Forster has signed with the Riveters on a one-year deal. The Swiss defender spent the last four seasons in Sweden’s SDHL, tallying 37 points through 131 games.

“Joining this fast growing PHF fits perfectly with my motivations,” Forster said. “After three Olympic Games and several years in the Swedish league, which is the most competitive in Europe, I was looking for a new challenge for the continuation of my career.”

The Toronto Six, meanwhile, added defender Kati Tabin to a one-year deal. A native of Canada, she spent tie with the Connecticut Whale last season.

She joins a stout blue line as the team’s 13th signing.

Tuesday, July 26 — Lauren Kelly re-signs with Boston on one-year deal, Minnesota adds Brittyn Fleming

Lauren Kelly will return to Boston, signing with the Pride on a one-year deal. It will be her fifth in the PHF and with he Pride.

“We are extremely excited to have Lauren back for her fifth season. Her consistency and physicality have been a big factor in our success these past few seasons,” Pride GM Maddie Rigsby said. “We are looking forward to what Lauren achieves this season!”

Former Minnesota State University-Mankato product Brittyn Fleming signed a one-year deal with Minnesota. During her time with the school, she set the program record for career games (161) as well as points with 114 (44 goals, 70 assists).

Monday, July 25 — Boston brings back All-Star defender Kali Flanagan, Montreal announces first signings

Defender and 2018 Olympic gold medalist Kali Flanagan re-signed with the Boston Pride on a two-year deal, the team announced Monday.

A first-round pick in the 2018 draft, Flanagan made her PHF debut last season, notching two goals and three assists during the Isobel Cup playoffs to lead all PHF players in the postseason.

Also a member of the USWNT, she’s an Olympic gold medalist and 2017 IIHF Women’s World Champion.

Following the announcement of their expansion, Montreal announced on Monday that it has signed its first seven players. Among them are veterans Ann-Sophie Bettez and Kim Deschênes.

Sunday, July 24 — Pride bring back Christina Putigna

Christina Putigna is returning to Boston on a one-year deal after joining the team as a free agent ahead of the 2019-20 season. A two-time All-Star, the forward contributed 29 points last season through 24 games.

“[Putigna] has been one of the best forwards in this league for the past three years. She has fantastic play-making abilities and has been a contributing factor to our championships,” Pride coach Paul Mara said. “We look forward to her continuing to be one of the most dangerous forwards in the PHF!”

Thursday, July 21 — Boston adds Allie Thunstrom in two-year deal, Justine Reyes signs with Connecticut

Boston continued to make a splash, announcing the signing of superstar Allie Thunstrom to a two-year deal. The Pride signed her away from Minnesota, where she tallied 69 points through 64 games for the Whitecaps.

Prior to joining Minnesota, Thunstrom spent her collegiate career at Boston University.

“My decision to join the Pride was extremely difficult – I have been so incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to play for the Whitecaps and I will be forever grateful to Jack Brodt, Dwayne Schmigdall, as well as the entire organization, team and fan base for making my time on the team so special,” Thunstrom said.

“Since college, Boston has always been a second home to me,” she continued. “It’s where I had to figure out how to live without a safety net, it’s where I had to figure out who I was beyond hockey – and I know for absolute certainty I would not be the person I am today without Boston College and the people there and across the city that made my experience so great. I can only hope to have a similar experience playing for the Pride.”

Connecticut, meanwhile, signed Justine Reyes to a one-year deal, marking her first professional contract.

Reyes joins the Whale from overseas, where she spent last season with Linkoping HC of the SDHL.

Wednesday, July 20 — Summer-Rae Dobson signs two-year contract with Beauts, Boston re-signs Meghara McManus while Toronto adds defender Emma Greco

Forward Summer-Rae Dobson signed a two-year deal with Buffalo, fresh out of her college career with UConn. She spent four years prior to that at Mercyhurst UNiversity. Through 162 games, Dobson had 51 goals and 57 assists for 108 points.

“We love Summer-Rae’s enthusiasm and her energy,” said Beauts GM Nate Oliver. “She is a very spirited player, and it comes across in her game. We are excited to reconnect Summer-Rae with Emma Nuutinen, as the two were linemates at Mercyhurst and made for a very potent duo. They have a real affinity for each other. But no matter who Summer-Rae is on a line with, she brings the same intensity every shift and plays a complete game. She can be that shot in the arm when you need a clutch goal –whether she’s scoring it herself or setting up a teammate.”

Boston continued its flurry of signings on Wednesday, announcing that they had re-signed Meghara McManus for a third season. Drafted by the team in 2020, McManus has acquired 14 points through 24 career games.

The Riveters also added defender Emilie Harley on a one-year contract, marking her second season in the league. She spent her first in Buffalo after being selected second overall in the 2021 Draft.

Harley is the Riveters 12th free agent acquisition ahead of the 2022-23 season.

Defender Emma Greco opted to sign with Toronto on a one-year deal, marking her return to hockey after one year off. A part of the team’s inaugural campaign, she marks the Six’s 12th signing of the offseason.

“I honestly thought I was done playing hockey, and after watching from afar last season, and how far the PHF has come, I decided that I wanted to try to play again, especially with the direction that women’s ice hockey is going,” said Greco. “Obviously, the new Montreal team was announced and then also just the salary cap keeps increasing, so I really just wanted to be a part of where women’s ice hockey was headed.”

Also part of a busy Wednesday were the Connecticut Whale, who signed Lenka Serdar to a one-year contract.

A Czhechian Olympian, Serdar’s contract is her first professional contract in North America. She spent the last three seasons playing overseas, including in Sweden with Linkoping HC of the SDHL.

Tuesday, July 19 — Pride continue signings with addition of forward Becca Gilmore

Harvard University forward Becca Gilmore has signed with the Boston Pride on a one-year deal. A recent college graduate and Boston native, she tallied 125 points through 122 career games.

“I feel very lucky to sign my first professional contract with my hometown team,” said Gilmore. “I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue my hockey career in Boston with a program that has had a tremendous amount of success – it’s simply a dream!”

Monday, July 18 — Boston kicks off free agency with McKenna Brand re-signing

The Boston Pride began free agency by re-signing captain McKenna Brand for the season. It will be her fifth straight with the Pride.

The Minnesota native has been part of the Pride since 2017, helping them to back-to-back Isobel Cup titles. Currently, Brand is tied for fourth in all-time PHF points with 75, including 33 goals across 67 career games.

“McKenna has been a consistent, key player for us these past four seasons, so it is fantastic to have her back and help lead us to another championship,” said Maddie Rigsby, newly appointed general manager of the Pride. “I believe we have built a great roster this off-season, and I’m excited for everyone to see what we’ve been working on.”

Friday, July 15 — UConn’s Natalie Snodgrass signs with Minnesota on one-year deal

A five-year star at UConn, Minnesota native Natalie Snodgrass opted to sign with the Whitecaps on a one-year deal.

“The opportunity to come back to Minnesota after playing five years out east with the UConn Huskies is what ultimately attracted me to the Whitecaps,” said Snodgrass. “Getting the chance to play for my home team in front of my friends and family is what’s going to make this year a special one for me, and I can’t wait to get started.”

A two-time gold medal winner with Team USA at the IIHF U18 World Championships, she recorded 139 points through 170 career games at UConn. She also holds the Huskies’ all-time goalscoring record with 70 career goals.

Thursday, July 14 — Riveters add Olympic defender Anna Kilponen

The Metropolitan Riveters continued to bolster their defense on Thursday, adding Olympian Anna Kilponen on a one-year deal.

A native of Orivesi, Finland, she is a two-time world bronze medalist and competed in the 2014 Olympics. She joins the PHF from Finland’s Naisten Liiga and Russia’s ZhHL, where she helped the KRS Vanke Rays to a title.

Wednesday, July 13 — Buffalo signs Michaela Boyle to one-year deal, Toronto re-signs Breanne Wilson-Bennett

Fresh out of college, Michaela Boyle has signed a one-year contract with the Buffalo Beauts. The 2018 NCAA Champion with Clarkson University most recently played with Boston College, but also spent time at Robert Morris. Through 118 career games, the forward tallied 38 goals and 25 assists for 63 points.

A power play threat, 16 of her 38 goals came on the power play, an area of concern for Buffalo last season.

Breanne Wilson-Bennett re-signed with Toronto on a one-year deal on Wednesday. After re-joining the team halfway through last season’s campaign, she put up six points in six games, including five goals.

“I think this is a very exciting time for the women’s game and for the PHF,” said Wilson-Bennett. “With the salary cap increase, the option to focus solely on hockey is now a reality. I could not pass up on the opportunity to fulfill my dream of being a full time professional hockey player. I can’t wait to see what we’re all capable of now that we’re able to commit ourselves completely to the game.”

Monday, July 11 — Minnesota announces signing of Liz Schepers

Ohio State forward Liz Schepers signed with Minnesota on Monday, fresh off of winning a national title with the Buckeyes.

A team captain at OSU, she spent all five years of her college career in Columbus. The all-time record holder for career games played with 170, she posted a career-high 48 points in her final season.

“We are happy to have Liz continue her career back in the State of Minnesota after an impressive five years with Ohio State,” said Minnesota head coach, Ronda Engelhardt. “Liz is someone who will do the little things, go the extra mile, and work hard daily. As a player that can find the back of the net, we know Liz will make an immediate impact with our offense.”

Thursday, July 7 — Metropolitan Riveters sign goalie Rachel McQuigge

The Metropolitan Riveters finished off their goalkeeping duo by signing free agent Rachel McQuigge to a one-year contract.

She joins the Riveters from Princeton University, where she amassed a .933 save percentage and goals against average of 1.81.

“I chose to sign a contract with the Rivs at this time of rapid growth in the pro women’s game because I want to be a part of a concerted effort to increase visibility and opportunity for women in sports,” said McQuigge. “I believe that sports are a vehicle for life skills and social change, and women have been under appreciated and left out of this arena for too long.”

Monday, July 11 — Liz Schepers signs with Minnesota Whitecaps

A reigning national champion out of Ohio State, forward Liz Schepers opted to sign with Minnesota on a one-year deal.

The Minnesota native was a team captain during her fifth season with the Buckeyes, she posted a career-high 48 points last season (21 goals, 27 assists).

“The Whitecaps are a first-class organization and have meant so much to the Minnesota hockey community,” said Schepers. “I grew up watching the Whitecaps and am very excited to continue my playing career back in my home state.”

Wednesday, July 6 — Toronto re-signs defender Lindsay Eastwood

Defender Lindsay Eastwood has opted to return to Toronto, signing with the team on a one-year contract.

The tallest player in the PHF, she tallied career highs last season with 14 points on three goals and 11 assists. Her 14 points were tied for second-most amongst all defenders in the league.

Wednesday, June 29 — Amanda Leveille to spend fifth year in Minnesota, Grace Klienbach to return to Buffalo

The Minnesota Whitecaps signed Amanda Leveille to a one-year contract. It will be the goaltender’s fifth with Minnesota and seventh in the league.

A two-time Isobel Cup winner and two-time Goaltender of the Year, Leveille has been a staple in net for the Whitecaps. Throughout her four seasons with the team, she’s held at least a .924 save percentage or higher, including a .937 save percentage this past season.

Also on Wednesday, Buffalo announced that forward Grace Klienbach had agreed to terms on a one-year deal. It’s Klienbach’s second straight season with the team and fifth overall.

Kennedy Ganser became the ninth free agent signing for the Metropolitan Riveters, having played with Buffalo during her rookie campaign last season. The forward recorded 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) last season, which tied for second on the team.

Tuesday, June 28 — Metropolitan Riveters add Kaycie Anderson

The offseason signings continued for the Riveters on Tuesday with the addition of forward Kaycie Anderson. Anderson has spent the past five seasons with Connecticut, recording 18 points through 61 regular season games.

She’s the eighth free agent acquisition by the Riveters this offseason.

Thursday, June 23 — Olivia Knowles to remain in Minnesota

Five-year Minnesota Golden Gophers standout and captain Olivia Knowles has opted to remain in Minnesota, signing with the Whitecaps on a one-year deal.

Through five years, the defender tallied 17 goals and 61 assists.

“We are excited to have Olivia join our defense this coming season. She is athletic, strong, and her skating ability stands out when you see her play,” Whitecaps coach Ronda Engelhardt said. “She will be an asset for our defense, and we look forward to seeing her contribute her rookie season.”

Wednesday, June 22 — Kassidy Sauvé signs with Buffalo, Toronto adds Carly Jackson

Goaltender Kassidy Sauvé has signed with the Buffalo Beauts on a one-year contract, marking her first PHF contract.

Previously, Sauvé played in Finland, putting up a 0.88 goals-against average and .964 save percentage in the Naisten Liiga for HPK. Prior to that, she spent three seasons with the PWHPA.

“With Sauvé we have obviously added an elite goaltender,” said Beauts GM Nate Oliver. “We feel that she is one of the best goaltenders in the world today. She has proven time and time again that she can be the deciding factor in any game she plays. With Sauvé and Lollo (Berndtsson), we have two number-1 goalies and a very solid tandem.”

The Toronto Six also added a goaltender on Wednesday, signing Carly Jackson to a one-year contract.

Jackson spent last season with the Beauts, recorded a .908 save percentage through 18 appearances and being named an All-Star. An alternate captain during her second pro season, she was Buffalo’s leading goaltender for two years.

Last season, she led the PHF with 521 shots faced and 473 saves.

“I started my tenure with the [Buffalo] Beauts and had nothing but a positive experience with them, but it was just time for a change for me,” she said. “I talked with Angela James on the phone, and I was starstruck and pretty amazed to be able to talk with her and pick her brain.

“Every single experience I’ve had with the Six, whether playing against them or during free agency, was nothing but exceptional. I have so much respect for this team and a lot of admiration for the players and staff. Having the opportunity to play for the Six, it was an offer I just couldn’t turn down. I’m really excited to be in the City of Toronto and be a member of the Six, and show the city what I can do”

Tuesday, June 21 — Justine Reyes bolsters Connecticut offense

After adding Lenka Serdar on Monday, the Whale continued to add to their scoring power with the addition of Justine Reyes. She spent the past two seasons in Germany, leading ESC Planegg in scoring over two seasons with the team.

“Justine is an exciting player with good size, speed, and a natural ability to find the puck around the net.” said head coach Colton Orr. “She adds more skill and scoring up front, is a fun player to watch, and fits the Whale style of hockey. We can’t wait to see what she can do in her first year in the PHF.”

Monday, June 20 — Connecticut Whale add Lenka Serdar

Czech Republic Olympian Lenka Serdar signed with the Connecticut Whale on a one-year deal on Monday. It’s her first professional North American contract.

A three-year professional player overseas, she led ECDC Memmingen in 2019 with 26 goals through 21 games. Last season, she had 11 goals and 18 assists through 35 games for Linkoping HC in Sweden.

“I’m very excited and grateful to join the Whale,” said Serdar. “I look forward to working alongside great players, our dedicated coaching staff, and an even better organization. I can’t wait to contribute to the team culture and on-ice success the Whale established last season and work together to bring an Isobel Cup to Connecticut.”

Friday, June 17 — Denisa Krizova signs with Minnesota

Olympian Denisa Krizova has signed with Minnesota, returning to the PHF after having played with the Boston Pride during the 2019-19 season.

The first Czech player to ever be selected in the PHF Draft in 2017, she debuted as a member of the Pride, putting up 14 points through 16 games. She then went overseas and played with Brynas IF in the SDHL, putting up 128 points over 106 regular-season games.

Thursday, June 16 — Madi Nichols signs with Beauts, Minttu Tuominen signs with Metropolitan Riveters, Toronto re-ups with Saroya Tinker

A college standout at Nazareth College, Madi Nichols has signed a one-year contract. She led her team in scoring the past two seasons, notching 96 points (37 goals, 59 assists) across 86 NCAA Division III games.

She ranks third in career goals, second in career assists and second in career points in Nazareth program history. Nearly half of her points total came this past season, when she notched 46 points in 29 games.

The Riveters continued to bolster their roster, adding four-time Olympic defender Minttu Tuominen to a one-year contract. A three-time Olympic bronze medalist (2010, 2018, 2022) and a five-time World medalist, Tuominen has spent the past 10 seasons playing professionally overseas.

She most recently spent two seasons playing professionally in Russia, guiding KRS Vanke Rays to a title in 2022.

Continuing on in the series of signings on Thursday, Saroya Tinker re-signed with Toronto on a one-year deal. The defender was the league’s top shot blocker last season, with 39 through 20 games. She also managed to register six points, with one goal and five assists.

Wednesday, June 15 — Patti Marshall re-signs with Minnesota

After a standout rookie season, defender Patti Marshall has re-signed with Minnesota on a one-year deal. Last season, Marshall was named a PHF All-Star while also receiving nominations for Defender of the Year and Newcomer of the Year.

A former 11th overall pick, she posted seven assists while a member of the blue line.

Tuesday, June 14 — Riveters add Olympian Eveliina Makinen

Three-time Olympic goaltender Eveliina Makinen is joining the PHF, signing with the Metropolitan Riveters on a one-year contract. A two-time Olympic bronze medalist, Makinen spent the last four seasons playing professionally in Sweden. Last season, she collected a 15-3-0 record, with a .905 save percentage.

Monday, June 13 — Anjelica Diffendal re-signs with Buffalo

After a stellar rookie campaign, Anjelica Diffendal has opted to return to Buffalo on a one-year contract. Through 20 games last season, she notched six goals — which tied her for first on the team. A former seventh-overall pick, she finished tied for third place in the PHF with three power-play goals.

Friday, June 10 — Autumn MacDougall to return to Buffalo, Lexi Templeman signs with Toronto

Autumn MacDougall will play with Buffalo for a third straight season after signing a one-year contract with the club. The 14th overall selection by Buffalo in 2020, she had 14 points in 20 games last season for the Beauts. Alongside her nine assists, she led Buffalo in both offensive categories.

She was a 2022 PHF All-Star selection.

Ohio State forward Lexi Templeman has signed with the Toronto Six for her rookie campaign. The free agent won a national championship with the Buckeyes this past season, the program’s first.

She spent her first four collegiate seasons at Robert Morris University. Adding in her final season at Ohio State, she had 138 points through 167 games.

Thursday, June 9 — Free agent Taylor Marchin signs with Riveters

Veteran free agent defender Taylor Marchin is on the move, opting to sign with the Metropolitan Riveters on a one-year deal.

She spent four seasons with Connecticut, playing in 55 games. The defender is the fifth free agent acquisition this offseason for the Riveters, who are also returning Madison Packer, Kendall Cornine and Kelly Babstock.

Wednesday, June 8 — Kelly Babstock signs with Metropolitan Riveters, Emma Woods returns to Toronto

Kelly Babstock is returning to the Riveters on a one-year deal. The veteran forward finished as the club’s fifth-highest scorer, with five goals and eight assists for 13 points.

She’s spent six seasons in the league, tallying 80 points across 96 games.

Emma Woods, meanwhile, is returning to Toronto for a third season on a one-year deal with the Six. She is the last remaining piece of the captaincy group to sign with the team.

An alternate captain last season, she had nine goals and nine assists. Included were three power play goals, which tied her for third in the PHF. She also finished second on the team in goals behind Mikyla Grant-Mentis, who is returning to Buffalo on a record deal.

Tuesday, June 7 — Claudia Kepler re-signs with Buffalo for two years, Connecticut signs Caitrin Lonergan

Winger Claudia Kepler is returning to Buffalo after signing a two-year deal with the Beauts. Last season she held a .214 shooting percentage, tied for third-best in the PHF, after scoring three goals on 13 shots on goal.

Clarkson University and Boston College standout Caitrin Lonergan signed with the Connecticut Whale on a one-year contract. A top-10 finalist for the Patty Kazmaier award as a sophomore and a senior, she consistently was having high-scoring seasons in the NCAA.

Lonergan is also a member of USA Hockey’s development program, having won a U18 IIHF Women’s World Championship gold medal in 2015.

Monday, June 6 — Connecticut signs Tori Howran to two-year deal

Tori Howran will return to Connecticut on a two-year contract. A blueliner, Howran recorded 26 shots on goal, posting eight assists in her second PHF season.

Friday, June 3 — Toronto Six signs high-powered forward Brittany Howard, Connecticut returns Amanda Conway

Free agent forward Brittany Howard signed a contract for the upcoming season with Toronto, the club announced Friday. She had previously spent three seasons with the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association, making her the second player from the PWHPA to sign a PHF contract for the upcoming season.

She fills a hole left by the departure of Mikyla Grant-Mentis. Prior to her stint in the PWHPA, she spent time with the Toronto Furies of the CWHL, tallying five goals and eight assists through 25 games.

Amanda Conway is also returning to Connecticut. Through 18 games last season, Conway had 12 goals and nine assists for 21 points, good for third on the team.

Thursday, June 2 — Connecticut brings back Hannah Bates

Former rookie Hannah Bates has re-joined the Connecticut Whale on a one-year contract. Solid on defense, she had five points through 18 games en route to helping the Whale to the No. 1 seed in the playoffs.

She also recorded a plus-14 rating as the team had the fewest goals-against in the PHF.

Wednesday, June 1 — Buffalo adds Emma Nuutinen, Cassidy MacPherson

Two-time Olympian and Olympic bronze medalist for Team Finland Emma Nuutinen signed a one-year contract with the Beauts on Wednesday. Most recently, she spent time with Finland’s Naisten Liiga, scoring 85 goals and notching 92 assists through six seasons. This PHF season will be her first in North America.

The team also announced that it had signed center Cassidy MacPherson to a one-year contract. It will be her fourth straight season with the team.

Tuesday, May 31 – Buffalo adds Antonia Matzka, Connecticut brings back Alyssa Wohlfeiler, Minnesota re-signs Jonna Curtis

Defender Antonia Matzka will join the Beauts as a rookie this season after graduating this year from the University of Vermont. She also spent time at Holy Cross. She has played for the Austrian women’s national team since 2014.

Whale assistant captain Alyssa Wohlfeiler will return for her fourth season with Connecticut after tying a career-high 16 points in 18 games last season. A PHF All-Star, she’s the fourth forward to sign with the team so far.

Jonna Curtis will return to Minnesota after leading the team in scoring during the 2021-22 season. Having been part of the Whitecaps since they joined the PHF in 2018-19, she has served as an assistant captain for the past three seasons.

Monday, May 30 – Abbie Ives returns to Connecticut

One of the main reasons that the Connecticut Whale led the regular season in 2021-22 was due to Abbie Ives’ stellar presence in net by. She’ll return to the Whale for the upcoming season after setting a franchise record 10 wins in net while also posting a .894 save percentage.

Sunday, May 29 – Where each team’s roster stands

As of May 29, every team but one (Boston) has signed at least one player. But the Pride don’t appear worried about their current lack of players.

Tell us you're not worried about signing players, without telling us you're not worried about signing players......We'll go first 👇👇👇.........Don't worry bout it.#PrideHockey #DontWorryAboutIt #PHF #IsobelCup https://t.co/Y1nP03dZAn pic.twitter.com/6slUBHMMEO

— Boston Pride (@TheBostonPride) May 31, 2022

Alongside Grant-Mentis, the Beauts have also added Jenna Suokko back for a second PHF season and the 12th season of her professional career. Buffalo native Allison Attea will also return to the team after being drafted 19th overall by the team in 2021. Joining them are Dominique Kremer, Courtney Maud, Jessica Healey and Lovisa Berndtsson.

The Metropolitan Riveters started to fill out their roster with the re-signing of captain Madison Packer. They then made headlines by signing U.S. Olympian Amanda Pelkey away from the PWHPA. International free agent defender Ebba Berglund signed a one-year contract and will be joined by Reka Dabasi, Sarah Bujold and Kendall Cornine.

The Toronto Six have re-signed players from last season, starting with goaltender Elaine Chuli. They’ve also added back Taylor Davison, Shiann Darkangelo and Taylor Woods.

Connecticut has signed four players to its roster, bringing back forwards Kennedy Marchment, Taylor Girard and Emma Vlasic. Defender Allie Munroe will return for her second year with the team after recording 13 points last season, including 10 assists. Girard will enter her second season with the team after winning PHF Newcomer of the Year, racking up 24 points on the season – good for third in the PHF.

The Whitecaps have also signed four players. Minnesota re-signed Ashleigh Brykaliuk to a two-year deal. She had a breakout rookie season, scoring 14 points through 20 games – including 11 assists. Joining her are Sidney Morin, Sydney Brodt, and Sydney Baldwin.

The USWNT hit the ground running on Thursday, taking down Colombia 2-0 to kick off the 2025 SheBelieves Cup with a bang.

Catarina Macario opened the scoring in the 33rd minute with her first international goal in almost three years, before 21-year-old Ally Sentnor put the game out of reach at the 60-minute mark with her first-ever international tally.

"Everybody is super happy, super proud, and I'm sure everybody back at Chelsea is too," US head coach Emma Hayes said of Macario’s strike, as the forward continues her long return from injury.

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USWNT rookies show out

Hayes’s decision to feature less experienced players in the match paid off, with the winning side bolstered by numerous first caps, starts, and a screamer of a goal for the world No. 1 team.

In just her third cap and first start for the senior national team, Sentnor's efforts earned her praise from Hayes, who called the young attacker's performance "tenacious on both sides of the wall."

Also excelling in her first USWNT start was 17-year-old Lily Yohannes, who lofted the ball forward in pursuit of Macario’s opening goal and stood out as the most creative passer within a US midfield that completed over 500 passes.

"She's really switched on and someone who understands the importance of doing everything for the team and for that I really admire her," Hayes said after the match.

Hayes also continued her efforts to mint new USWNT players with a trio of first caps in Thursday's match. While forward Michelle Cooper and defender Gisele Thompson snagged their first USWNT minutes as late substitutes, center-back Tara McKeown grabbed a starting spot, then capitalized on the opportunity by registering an assist to set up Sentnor's jaw-dropping goal.

Hayes has emphasized the need for the USWNT to develop its future, but Thursday’s performance showed that the future might be closer than originally expected — especially considering the big names missing from this window’s USWNT roster.

Sonnett celebrates 100th USWNT cap

Alongside all the noteworthy firsts, the USWNT also had the chance to celebrate its veteran leadership on Thursday.

Prior to the match, the team honored Emily Sonnett for her 100th cap before the versatile defender captained the squad as a starting center-back on the night.

Notably, Sonnett's USWNT tenure includes competing in all 10 iterations of the SheBelieves Cup — more than any other player.

USWNT to face Australia in second SheBelieves match

Now sitting in second in the SheBelieves Cup standings, the USWNT trails only Japan due to goal differential after the Nadeshiko toppled Australia 4-0 on Thursday afternoon.

The struggling Matildas, who failed to register a single shot on goal against Japan, must now face the seven-time SheBelieves champion USWNT in Arizona on Sunday — a team Australia has only defeated once in the pair's 35 all-time meetings.

The last time the teams met, the US defeated the Matildas 2-1 in the final group stage match of the 2024 Olympics to advance to the quarterfinals.

This time out, expect heavy roster rotation from Hayes's squad as players look to stay healthy for their club seasons, with some still ramping up to full fitness before the 2025 NWSL season.

How to watch the USWNT vs. Australia in the SheBelieves Cup

The USWNT kicks off against Australia in the 2025 SheBelieves Cup at 5 PM ET on Sunday, with live coverage on TBS, Max, and Peacock.

The 2024/25 NCAA basketball season is down to its 10 final days of competition, with conference tournament seeding hanging in the balance as top teams try to build up some March Madness momentum.

Proving that nothing is guaranteed, two teams suffered upset losses on Thursday night.

In the ACC, No. 11 Duke fell to unranked Louisville 70-62. Though senior guard Jayda Curry led both the Cardinals and the game with 24 points, Louisville's victory came largely from the free throw line, where the Cards snagged 22 points but the Blue Devils only banked four.

The Big Ten followed suit, when unranked Indiana downed No. 8 Ohio State 71-61. Fueled by double-digit performances from four different Hoosiers, Indiana took an early lead and never relented, outshooting and out-rebounding the Buckeyes to hand them their fourth loss on the season.

NCAA conference titles take center court in decisive weekend matchups

While some teams are stumbling at the finish line, others have a shot at clinching conference hardware this weekend.

With a two-win lead on the ACC table, No. 1 Notre Dame has the chance to lock down the conference's regular-season title on Sunday, when the Irish will take on second-place No. 13 NC State.

The consequential clash has earned Raleigh a visit from ESPN’s College Gameday, with the pre-game show slated to build upon last weekend’s success in South Carolina with another high-stakes matchup.

Meanwhile in the SEC, No. 7 LSU’s season is also on the line. Unlike the Irish, however, the Tigers are simply trying to keep their dwindling conference title hopes alive, facing a must-win game against No. 14 Kentucky on Sunday.

To claim the SEC’s No. 1 seed, LSU would also need both No. 2 Texas and No. 6 South Carolina to stumble in their regular-season home stretch.

Beyond conference titles, the regular season’s wind-down can provide insights into how far teams can run into the postseason, as any upsets this week could spell busted brackets — or unexpected surges — come March.

How to watch Sunday's Top 15 NCAA basketball games

No. 1 Notre Dame will tip off the ranked Sunday action against No. 13 NC State at 12 PM ET, with live coverage of the ACC titans airing on ESPN.

Then at 4 PM ET, No. 7 LSU will try to steal a road win over No. 14 Kentucky, with ESPN also airing the decisive SEC meeting.

On Wednesday, US tennis icon Venus Williams was awarded a wild card spot to play in next month’s BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, with the 44-year-old signing onto participate in her first WTA competition in a almost a year.

Williams has not featured in a tour event since the 2024 Miami Open, exiting that tournament in her March 19th opening match after dropping two straight sets to Diana Shnaider.

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Venus Williams continues her storied tennis career

Often stating her desire to play professional tennis for as long as she can, the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion has never officially announced her retirement.

"Serena ruined it for me," Williams joked during an October 2024 TV interview, referencing her sister’s 2022 retirement. "Because as soon as she retired, everybody thought I retired."

Williams, who turned pro over 30 years ago, boasts a resume with 49 singles trophies and five Olympic medals. Her combined 21 Grand Slam titles includes five Wimbledon singles championships, two US Open singles trophies, and 14 doubles titles alongside her younger sister.

While she has more major singles titles than any other active woman on tour, Williams hasn't added to her tally since winning the Taiwan Open in February 2016.

Having drastically decreased her competition schedule over the last few seasons, Williams has competed in just nine events over the past two years.

"At this point, it’s about picking and choosing places I want to be," she said. 

A roller coaster history with Indian Wells

Given her stated intention to specifically choose her competition appearances, it's somewhat interesting that Williams set her sights on the Indian Wells tournament.

While she first competed at the event in 1994, both Williams and her sister boycotted the tournament for 14 years following Serena's experience during the 2001 final. Though she ultimately won the title, then-19-year-old Serena experienced booing and racist abuse during the match — an ordeal the younger Williams sister called "very traumatizing."

Serena ultimately returned to the competition in 2015, with Venus doing the same in 2016.

With 10 Indian Wells appearances on her resume, including three trips to the competition's semifinals, this year's tournament marks the second-straight year that Williams will play as a wild card entry. At the 2024 edition, she fell 6-2, 3-6, 0-6 to Nao Hibino in the first round.

How to watch the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells tennis tournament

The 2025 BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells runs from March 2nd through 16th.

With her wild card berth, Williams will begin play when the main draw starts on March 5th.

Live coverage of the tournament will air across the Tennis Channel's platforms.

ESPN scored a pair of blockbuster wins last weekend, as Sunday’s NCAA basketball doubleheader featuring No. 5 UConn vs. No. 6 South Carolina plus No. 2 Texas vs. No. 7 LSU earned the network record viewership.

First, UConn’s 87-58 blowout of the reigning national champion Gamecocks garnered an average of 1.8 million viewers with a peak of 2.2 million. Later, Texas’s 65-58 victory over the Tigers peaked at 2.3 million viewers while drawing an average of 1.7 million fans.

The back-to-back lineup became the most-watched women's basketball games across ESPN platforms this season. Even more, the matchups registered the third and fourth highest regular-season viewership in the NCAA sport in the broadcast giant's history.

Sunday’s pregame show also put up impressive numbers, becoming the most-watched regular-season Women’s College Gameday since 2010.

Notably, Sunday's doubleheader aired on the broadcast conglomerate's flagship network, ABC — placing some of the country's tops college stars into a prime national spotlight.

Fans tune in as NCAA season sprints toward March Madness

With March's postseason play fast approaching, interest in top NCAA basketball programs — and the elite stars on their rosters — continues to explode throughout the 2024/25 regular season.

ESPN’s ratings have risen accordingly, with UConn’s December upset loss to Notre Dame averaging 847,000 viewers, while South Carolina’s win over SEC rivals LSU averaged 1.56 million fans last month.

Ultimately, when major networks elevate regular-season women's college basketball games, fans consistently respond with massive viewership numbers. For ESPN, there’s nowhere to go but up, as the NCAA tournament rights-holder keeps successfully pushing college coverage.

How to watch Top 25 NCAA basketball on Thursday

With almost 260 college basketball games earning airtime across ESPN's platforms this week, 16 of the country's Top 25 teams will be featured on the broadcaster's networks before next Wednesday.

Top Thursday matchups include an SEC clash between No. 18 Alabama and hosts No. 15 Tennessee, which tips off at 6:30 PM ET and will stream live on ESPN subsidiary SECN+.

Earning a prime broadcast spot on ESPN2 is No. 11 Duke, who will host unranked Louisville at 7 PM ET.