Orlando Pride signs prolific scorer Barbra Banda to contract extension

The Orlando Pride have secured the services of prolific striker Barbra Banda through a contract extension, ensuring her presence with the club until 2029. The move, a landmark one, guarantees stability for both the player and the club for a significant period. Banda, who captains Zambia's women's national team, has been a standout striker in the NWSL since joining in 2024.

In her debut season, she earned the NWSL Championship MVP award and played a pivotal role in the Pride's first-ever NWSL Shield and Championship victories. Currently, Banda is in a tight race for the Golden Boot award with 16 goals in 20 matches, trailing North Carolina's Ashley Sanchez by three goals. Qualifying for the NWSL's High Impact Player rule, her new contract is likely to attract attention from other clubs.

Caitlin Carducci, the Pride's vice president of soccer operations and general manager, described Banda as "one of the most dynamic players in world football" and emphasized the importance of retaining such talent to compete for championships. Banda, 26, had previously signed a four-year contract with Orlando in 2024, which was set to expire in 2027.

The Pride acquired her for a $740,000 transfer fee from Shanghai Shengli FC in China's Women's Super League. Banda expressed her happiness at joining the Pride and thanked her teammates, coaches, staff, and fans for their support. Despite the club's struggles this season, finishing 11th in the NWSL standings, Banda remains a key player, contributing over half of the team's 31 goals.

The Pride have six matches left in the regular season, currently sitting seven points below the playoff line. The club recently parted ways with coach Seb Hines, marking a significant leadership change as they pursue new objectives and a long-term vision, which now includes Banda. Mark Wilf, the club's owner and chairman, praised Banda's transformative impact, stating that she has elevated the Pride to new heights and solidified the club's position among the world's premier women's football organizations.