PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Timbers today announced that the club has signed defender Bill Tuiloma to a multi-year contract extension.

“Bill is an ascending young player who has a very bright future,” said Timbers GM and President of Soccer Gavin Wilkinson. “He has played his way into becoming a fixture along the back line and we are delighted to secure his services for years to come.”

Tuiloma, 24, has played the past three seasons (2017-19) in Portland, making 38 regular-season appearances (28 starts) and registering two goals during that span. During the 2018 campaign, Tuiloma logged 13 appearances (seven starts) and scored one goal. Tuiloma made four appearances (two starts) during the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs, helping the Timbers claim the Western Conference Championship. In 2019, Tuiloma set career-bests in appearances (25), starts (21) and minutes played (1,919) while scoring one goal in league play.

“We feel very excited that Bill will continue as part of the Portland Timbers family,” said Giovanni Savarese, head coach of the Timbers. “He is a defender with a lot of quality who can be versatile. He has worked hard to be an important player and still has the potential to grow.”

At the international level, Tuiloma has made 25 appearances for the New Zealand National Team since making his senior team debut against Trinidad and Tobago on Oct. 15, 2013.

Transaction: Portland Timbers sign defender Bill Tuiloma to a multi-year contract extension on Dec. 19, 2019.