Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda named May Player of the Month, Presented by EA Sports | Orlando Pride
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 6, 2024) – In a thrilling announcement by the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) today, Orlando Pride forward Barbra Banda has been crowned as the Player of the Month for May. This prestigious title was awarded to her by the NWSL Media Association and the league’s on-air broadcast talent, presented by EA SPORTS.
Banda has taken the league by storm in her debut season in the NWSL, showcasing her exceptional talent with a remarkable performance. Scoring a total of eight goals, with seven of them coming in the month of May alone, along with two crucial assists in seven matches played, Banda’s impact on the field has been nothing short of outstanding. Her impressive display included three braces in the past month, putting her on par with Portland Thorns FC forward Sophia Smith for the league lead in braces. Additionally, Banda equaled a Pride Club record for the most braces in a single season, a record previously held by her teammate and fellow forward, Marta, back in 2017.
As a Zambian international player, Banda has proven her versatility and skill, finding the back of the net in five out of her six starts this season. Currently, she holds the second position in the golden boot standings through tiebreakers. With a total playing time of 515 minutes so far, Banda has shown her aerial prowess by scoring four out of her eight goals with her head, matching the Pride record for the most headed goals by a single player in the club’s history.
The exceptional performance of Banda has not only elevated her individual standing but has also contributed significantly to the Pride’s success in the 2024 campaign. The team remains undefeated with an impressive eight-game win streak, setting a new league record. Leading the league standings with 27 points from 11 matches, Orlando Pride has emerged as a dominant force in the NWSL under Banda’s leadership.
The NWSL Player of the Month award, presented by EA Sports, is a prestigious accolade that recognizes outstanding performance and contribution to the league. The selection process involves the NWSL Media Association, comprising dedicated writers covering the league regularly, and the league’s on-air broadcast talent who collectively choose the deserving candidate each month. With her exceptional achievements and impact on the field, Barbra Banda’s recognition as the May Player of the Month is a testament to her remarkable talent and dedication to the sport.
