PHOENIX – Phoenix Rising FC announced on Tuesday it had signed attacking midfielder Hope Kodzo Avayevu ahead of the 2025 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval and receipt of his P-1 Visa.

Avayevu joins Rising after stints with Ventura County FC and North Texas SC, where he made a name for himself as a dynamic offensive force. The 22-year-old recorded 11 goals and 17 assists in 68 appearances in MLS NEXT Pro, averaging a goal contribution every 128.6 minutes in 3,601 minutes of action.

"Hope is a talented player I’ve had the pleasure of working with before,” said Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “He’s a creative player with exceptional quality who will excite our fans with goals and assists. My staff and I are eager to help him reach his full potential, which will, in turn, help this organization achieve success."

Born in Accra, Ghana, Avayevu began his professional journey with North Texas SC in 2021 after impressing during an international scouting program. He quickly established himself as a standout player, registering 11 goals and 13 assists with NTSC across 44 appearances. After signing with Ventura County FC – previously the LA Galaxy II – he notched an additional four assists in 413 minutes during the 2024 campaign.

"I'm honored to join Phoenix Rising and embrace the opportunity to compete with a club that has such ambitious goals," said Avayevu. "Having worked with Coach Pa in Dallas, I know his high expectations and how he motivates players to excel. This is the ideal environment for me to grow and contribute, and I'm excited to bring my creativity and passion to the field. I look forward to making our fans proud as we work toward achieving great things together."