Dash extend D Avery Patterson through 2028

Field Level Media|published: 03/03/2026, 12:28pm EST

Oct 3, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Dash defender Avery Patterson (15) controls the ball against the Orlando Pride at Shell Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

The Houston Dash extended U.S. Women's National Team defender Avery Patterson's contract through the 2028 season on Tuesday.

Patterson, 23, made the NWSL Best XI and was nominated for league Defender of the Year honors in her second season with the club in 2025. She was also named Houston's MVP after earning the club's Newcomer of the Year honor in 2024.

"Avery's journey with the Dash has been defined by her competitive spirit, resiliency and unrelenting quest to improve every aspect of her game," team president Angela Hucles Mangano said. "This extension reflects the progress she has made since joining the club and our belief in who she can become as she continues her career here in Houston. She has embraced our environment, thrived within it, and continues to grow both as a player and as a leader for our club."

Patterson led the Dash with 40 interceptions and 32 tackles won last season while contributing three goals and two assists.

Patterson is currently competing with the USWNT in the 2026 SheBelieves Cup. She has earned nine caps and tallied her first goal in a friendly against Ireland last June.

Houston opens the 2026 NWSL regular season on the road against San Diego Wave FC on March 14.

--Field Level Media