Reyes to Represent Portland in NWSL Skills Challenge
Portland Thorns defender Reyna Reyes will participate in the NWSL event airing on November 28.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Soccer
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Portland Thorns defender Reyna Reyes is set to compete in the NWSL Skills Challenge airing on November 28, 2026. Her participation in the three-part competition is contingent upon the Thorns advancing through the NWSL playoffs.
Why it matters
The event provides a unique platform for players to showcase individual technical abilities while competing for a $35,000 prize for their club. Portland currently holds seventh place in the league standings as they look toward the postseason.
Reyna Reyes has started 17 games for the Portland Thorns this season, contributing to the team's standing in seventh place. The NWSL Skills Challenge offers a $35,000 grand prize for the winning athlete's club.
The players
Reyna Reyes
She is a defender for the Portland Thorns who has played for the team for three seasons.
Sophia Wilson
She is an NWSL player currently facing a suspension for a hair-pulling incident during league play.
The details
Reyes, a third-year defender who represented Team Mexico in the 2024 CONCACAF W Gold Cup, will head to Virginia for the event. The competition will be broadcast later this year, though official appearances remain subject to Portland's progression in the league postseason.
Timeline
Reyna Reyes competed in the 2024 CONCACAF W Gold Cup.
Sophia Wilson will miss the game against North Carolina on Oct. 23, 2026.
The NWSL Skills Challenge is scheduled to air on Nov. 28, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The NWSL Skills Challenge offers a departure from traditional match play by focusing on individual technical drills to engage fans during the postseason. Participation in the event highlights the league's effort to showcase athlete proficiency while maintaining a competitive environment for team funding.
Sophia Wilson is confirmed to miss the game against North Carolina on Oct. 23, 2026, due to a suspension. Portland's ability to send Reyes to the event remains dependent on the club's advancement through the NWSL playoffs.
The takeaway
The Skills Challenge serves as a spotlight for individual talent outside of regular season play. Fans can track the Thorns playoff progress to see if Reyes will finalize her appearance in the upcoming broadcast.
What happens next
Sophia Wilson is set to serve a suspension for a hair pull, causing her to miss the upcoming match against Bay FC and the contest against North Carolina on Oct. 23, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on league events, visit Soccer.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oregon Live.
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