Sports

Why USL2 is the Coolest Soccer League in the USA

Published

3 years ago

May 21, 2022

Soccer continues to grow in popularity in the USA. The most obvious signs of this are in the MLS (Major League Soccer), which has expanded to 28 teams, with two more franchises scheduled to join by 2023. New teams such as LAFC, Austin FC, and Charlotte FC, who broke the MLS attendance record in their first game, have been well received by their local communities. In addition, they have helped to raise the profile of the sport with some clever branding and community engagement.

Cult following

The MLS has also picked up many new fans from abroad. The creation of fan groups, inspired by European “Ultras”, has resulted in a unique atmosphere. At first, this seemed manufactured, but it has taken on a life of its own. Many MLS teams are adopted by the local Hispanic communities, but they have also gained popularity amongst the LGBT communities, with rainbow pride flags now a regular feature in stadiums across the country.

Community spirit

However, it’s not just the Major League that has developed a cult following. In the lower leagues, there are some incredible soccer communities developing. The USL2 (United Soccer League Two) is a hotbed of cult teams, cool branding, and community spirit.

One such team is the Minneapolis City Soccer Club. The club is known as the Crows, and this is reflected in their logo, which was on a shortlist of five in a vote for the best crest in the league. Their Citizens support group are among the most loyal in the division and their groundbreaking soccer shirts are sought by collectors across the globe. The community-run club previously competed in the NPSL (National Premier Soccer League), winning the North Conference in 2018, 2019, and 2021. They stepped up to the USL2 in 2022.

A new look for West Virginia

Another new name to appear in 2021 was West Virginia United, which reached the conference playoffs. West Virginia has always lacked any major league sports teams but has a thriving college sports scene. It is also becoming a major destination for sports and casino gambling in the east of the country thanks to its five West Virginia online casinos, which offer online sports wagering. This growth in the gambling sector is expected to have a knock-on effect on the sports scene as more revenue is generated in the region. Like Minneapolis, West Virginia has also nailed their branding with a super cool logo that pays pay homage to the blue ridge mountains. The rebranding coincided with a kit deal with major sports brand Puma.

The ink has yet to dry but we are incredibly excited about this one! We have penned our new apparel partnership with @PUMA !! We couldn’t have imagined a better partner to display our badge and colors #WVUTD ??⚪️ pic.twitter.com/MiBWqsvUVx

— West Virginia United (@wvutd) May 7, 2021

The team began life as West Virginia Chaos in 2003 before merging with the youth teams of Charleston FC and Fury Soccer Club to form West Virginia Alliance FC in 2018. They joined USL2 in 2019 and it is hoped that the latest change of name will be permanent as the club looks to provide a stable first-team environment in the fourth tier of the US soccer, as well as a development team in the USL Academy system.

Cool branding

Surprisingly, West Virginia United did not make the final shortlist for the best new crest in the USL2 poll. Nonetheless, they were up against some stiff competition, most notably, winners One Knoxville SC who made a brilliant video to show how their crest was designed.

Magic behind the crest! pic.twitter.com/7nnZNadUOF

— One Knoxville SC (@OneKnoxSC) August 19, 2021

Other teams featured in the vote were Louisiana-based Blue Goose SC, Ballard FC of Washington, and Vermont Green FC, but these teams are about more than just branding.

In the tier above (USL1), there are also some cult clubs including Forward Madison FC, the self-styled “world’s second favorite team.” They made an instant impact after launching in 2019 thanks to their smart social media work and colorful kit designs, but it is USL2 that is leading the way in the fast-growing world of cult community soccer clubs.

Sports

At 6’10” and 260 Pounds of Power, NBA Scouts and Small Market Teams Believe Kévin Noulowe Belongs in the NBA

Published

4 weeks ago

November 28, 2024

Rosario Farell

For NBA teams in search of a dominant, athletic presence, Kévin Noulowe is an ideal candidate. The 6’10” forward brings together elite size, strength, and explosive athleticism that many believe make him an ideal fit for the NBA—if he can stay healthy.

Noulowe’s path to the top has been anything but conventional. A highly regarded high school prospect, he rapidly became one of the most coveted players in the junior college ranks. His impressive performances earned him All-American honors and a top-15 national ranking among junior college players, sparking the interest of over 60 Division I programs.

From there, Noulowe transitioned to play overseas in Armenia’s A League, where he made a major impact despite battling a knee injury. Averaging 13 points, 13 rebounds, 3 assists, and 3 blocks per game, Noulowe showcased his all-around game, proving he could dominate in all facets of play. Known as the most athletic big man the league had ever seen, he captivated fans with his rim-rattling dunks and above-the-rim play, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Several NBA teams, particularly those in need of a versatile big man, have shown significant interest in Noulowe and have already spoken to his agent. With the NBA increasingly valuing big men who can stretch the floor, Noulowe’s focus on regaining full health and developing a consistent jump shot has only heightened his appeal. His combination of physical dominance and developing shooting ability has made him a player to watch for scouts.

What makes Noulowe truly exceptional is his physical prowess. With a powerful 7’3″ wingspan and a 40-inch vertical leap, he has the tools to be a game-changer on both ends of the court. Noulowe is a nightmare for opponents on defense, using his strength, agility, and length to block shots and control the boards. As a finisher, he can absorb contact and finish with authority, making him a versatile threat in the paint. Whether playing the 3, 4, or 5 positions, he is capable of impacting the game from anywhere on the floor and is poised to become one of the NBA’s strongest forwards.

Perhaps what sets Noulowe apart most is his unwavering determination. His relentless work ethic and commitment to improving his skills have kept NBA teams intrigued. His dedication to his craft and his drive to succeed have made him a standout prospect.

The verdict from NBA scouts and coaches is clear: when Noulowe is fully healthy, he has the tools to not only compete but thrive in the NBA. With his journey far from over, all eyes are on this 6’10” powerhouse as he looks to bring his game to the highest level.