1. Ikenna Martin "Ike" Opara is an American former professional soccer player who is currently an assistant coach for Sporting Kansas City II in MLS Next Pro.
12 Facts About Ike Opara
1. 2.
Ike Opara was a member of Wake Forest's 2007 NCAA College Cup Championship team.
3.
Ike Opara was named ACC Defensive Player of the year in 2008 and 2009.
4.
Ike Opara was drafted in the first round of the 2010 MLS SuperDraft by San Jose Earthquakes.
5.
Ike Opara was traded to Sporting Kansas City from San Jose on December 12,2012, for Kansas City's natural second-round selection in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.
6.
Ike Opara's goal, scored in the 96th minute, won the match for Sporting.
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Ike Opara logged 21 appearances and was named Sporting KC Newcomer of the Year for 2013.
8.
Ike Opara would go on to establish himself as a regular, solidifying one of the top defenses in MLS over the next few seasons, alongside his central back partner Matt Besler, converted right back Graham Zusi and left back Seth Sinovic.
9.
On November 10,2017, Ike Opara was awarded the MLS Defender of the Year Award and was selected to the MLS Best XI for his spectacular performances during the 2017 MLS season, joining his fellow SKC player, goalie Tim Melia, on the list.
10.
Ike Opara was awarded the MLS Defender of the Year Award for 2019 On August 5,2021, Minnesota opted to buyout Opara's contract.
11.
Ike Opara was selected to the United States Men's National Team on January 8,2018.
12.
Ike Opara returned to Sporting Kansas City in January 2022, being named assistant coach for the club's MLS Next Pro side Sporting Kansas City II.