The Houston Dash agreed to a three-year extension with defender Avery Patterson on Thursday.

The deal begins on Jan. 1 and runs through the 2027 regular season.

Patterson, 22, was the 19th overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft and tallied a goal and two assists in 28 matches.

“Avery had a remarkable rookie season, and we saw her impact each week as she went toe-to-toe with some of the best attacking players in the world,” interim general manager Erik Ustruck said. “She consistently performed at a high level and brings valuable versatility to our roster.”

Patterson topped the Dash with 12 blocked shots and made 36 successful tackles while contributing to eight clean sheets in her rookie season.

“Houston quickly became my new home this year thanks to the genuine welcome and hospitality of my teammates, coaches, staff and Dash fans,” Patterson said in a news release. “I look forward to achieving what we are capable of in the seasons and postseasons ahead of us. I believe in this team and our future, and I’m grateful to extend my time here in Houston to prove it.”

–Field Level Media