This Friday, January 16, 2026, the San Diego Wave announced the signing of Kiki Pickett to a two-year deal through the 2027 season.

The Wave have had several moves this offseason and continue to be very active in the current transfer window.

Pickett joins San Diego as a free agent, coming off a pair of seasons with Bay FC. The Santa Barbara, Calif. native received plenty of playing time in both seasons, playing 21 games in 2024 and 19 last year.

Kiki can do it all 💯 pic.twitter.com/0vXOIiyPWA

— San Diego Wave FC (@sandiegowavefc) January 16, 2026

The 26-year-old can play as both a fullback and midfielder as she offers plenty of versatility. Pickett scored two goals in 2025, as goalscoring is not her main function, offering more in ball recovery and build-up play.

SD Wave Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton talked about what Pickett brings to this team. “Kiki is a dynamic player we’ve been familiar with for a long time, dating back to her time with Kansas City. We’re excited to bring her into our environment”, said Ashton.

Despite her age, Pickett does offer plenty of experience, having been in NWSL since 2021 and having played college soccer at Stanford from 2017-2021. The Wave has consistently signed Stanford alumni, with players like Naomi Girma, Kennedy Wesley, Nya Harrison, and Sierra Enge also playing in San Diego.

Pickett is a valuable player to any NWSL roster, given that she can plug in and play in several different positions. It will be interesting to see where head coach Jonas Eidevall decides to play Pickett more often this year.

Francisco Velasco

Francisco, 28, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego FC, San Diego Wave. I have covered Liga MX, MLS, Mexico National Team, USWNT, Copa América and European clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.