PWHL San Jose signs Laila Edwards, their first ever draft pick, to a three year contract.
PWHL San Jose announced today that Laila Edwards has signed a 3-year Standard Player Agreement ahead of the 2026-27 season. Edwards, who most recently won Olympic Gold for Team USA and the NCAA National Championships with the University of Wisconsin, was the club’s first ever draft selection, going fourth overall.
“I remember falling in love with San Jose. I was telling my brother; I love it here, I could live here,” Edwards shared after she was drafted. In a press release today she added, “I couldn’t have landed in a better place and organization than San Jose. I’m so excited to get to work and get going with this group.”
The 22-year-old from Cleveland Heights, Ohio spent her collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin, where she posted 199 points (81 goals, 118 assists) in 151 games. During her tenure, Wisconsin won the NCAA Championships three times, and she made the Championship All Star Team three times as well.
Edwards has been a member of the U.S. National Women’s Team for three straight years compiling one Olympic gold medal and two silver medals in IIHF Women’s World Championship competition. At the 2026 Milan Olympics, Edwards was named to the All-Star Team.
Edwards played as a forward her entire hockey career until switching to the blue line in 2024. She made her defensive debut during the 2024 USA-Canada Rivalry Series game at the arena that would become her new practice rink just two years later, in San Jose.
We are thrilled to officially welcome Laila to San Jose and are excited about what her commitment means for the future we are building here,” said Troy Ryan, PWHL San Jose General Manager and Head Coach. “Laila is an exceptional talent who embodies the character we value in our organization. She has tremendous potential, and we are committed to supporting her growth and development as she establishes herself as a professional.”
Edwards joins a young roster prepared to make a splash in San Jose this season. With Edwards’ signing, PWHL San Jose has 14 players on their roster.
