By Tiffany Williams –
Jacob Akanyirige
In Foxborough, Massachusetts, on Monday, New England Revolution II signed defender Jacob Akanyirige to an MLS NEXT Pro professional contract ahead of the 2023 season.
21-year-old Akanyirige, comes to New England’s second team from Rochester New York FC where he made 17 starts across 18 appearances in 2022
Akanyirige recorded one goal and three assists. After developing in San Jose’s Academy system, the Pleasanton, Calif. native made his MLS debut on September 16, 2020 with the Earthquakes, logging 69 minutes in a 1-1 draw vs. Portland.
Internationally, Akanyirige owns 155 minutes played across two appearances vs. Mexico with the United States Under-20 Youth National Team in January 2020.
Brionna Jones
Monday morning, the Connecticut Sun confirmed that the 2022 Kia WNBA Sixth Player of the Year and two-time WNBA All-Star Brionna Jones re-signed with the team on a one-year deal.
Jones was selected eighth overall in the 2017 WNBA Draft and has spent all six seasons with Connecticut. During the 2022 season, she averaged 13.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.2 steals. She ranked 20th in the WNBA in scoring, fourth in field goal percentage (56.9%), and second in offensive rebounds per game (2.6).
“We are so excited to have Breezy back,” remarked Connecticut Sun Head Coach, Stephanie White. “She’s a proven winner that has worked tirelessly to become one of the best players in our league. She impacts our team on the floor, and in the locker room, she is a tremendous ambassador for our community. I can’t wait to work with her this summer.”
Jones is currently playing overseas with USK Prague alongside Connecticut Sun forward, Alyssa Thomas. She is averaging 19.6 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per contest, while holding a 22-5 overall record on the season.
“Brionna has played a significant role in the Sun’s success over the past few years,” said Connecticut Sun General Manager, Darius Taylor. “We are super excited to have her stay in Connecticut and continue to watch her game flourish as we look to compete for a title this season and beyond.”
Jones and the Sun tip off the 2023 season on Friday, May 19, at the Indiana Fever at 7:00 PM EST.
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