Bay FC continues to build out its 2025 roster as the NWSL franchise begins its second season.

The club announced on Friday that it had signed defender Kelli Hubly, a two-time NWSL champion, to a two-year contract.

“We’re excited to bring someone with Kelli’s experience and skill to Bay FC,” coach Albertin Montoya said in a release. “She has the championship mentality that we are looking for, and we feel she will fit right into this environment and help make our club better.”

Hubly, 30, won two NWSL titles with the Portland Thorns, as well as the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup and the 2021 NWSL Shield. She played for Portland from 2017 to 2024.

“I am thrilled to be joining this amazing club,” Hubly said. “I’m so excited for the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow together. I’m ready to take on new challenges and bring my best self.”

She joins a center back group that mostly featured co-captain Emily Menges, Caprice Dydasco and Bay Area native Abby Dahlkemper after Dahlkemper’s August arrival via trade. Veteran center back Jen Beattie retired earlier this month.

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Hubly appeared in 24 matches last season for Portland, playing over 2,000 minutes for the Thorns. She is a native of Elk Grove Village, Illinois, who played college soccer at Kentucky and DePaul.

Hubly is also close friends with former Stanford star forward Sophia Smith. Smith wrote on Instagram after Portland announced Hubly’s departure: “not my bestfriend. I love you forever.”

Smith, 24, is signed with Portland through 2025 with an option for 2026. At the time of her signing, she was the highest-paid player in the NWSL.