Laila Edwards makes history in Milan with support from the Kelce brothers

Laila Edwards made her Olympic debut for the United States in Milan, helping the team to a 5-1 opening win over Czechia, and became the first Black player to suit up for the U.S. women's Olympic hockey team while receiving hometown support that included a donation from Travis Kelce.

Laila Edwards made her Olympic debut for the United States in Milan on Thursday, helping the team to a 5-1 opening win over Czechia. Her appearance marked the first time a Black player suited up for the U.S. women's Olympic hockey team. Edwards is from Cleveland Heights, Ohio, the hometown of Jason and Travis Kelce, and the brothers have publicly supported her. A family GoFundMe to travel to Milan reached and exceeded its goal after a donation from Travis Kelce. Key facts: - Edwards, 22, made her Olympic debut in the United States' 5-1 opening preliminary win over Czechia. - She is reported as the first Black player to suit up for the U.S. women's Olympic hockey team. - Edwards played at the University of Wisconsin and won the 2023 NCAA championship with her sister Shayla under coach Mark Johnson. - In 2023 she scored 21 goals and 56 points in 41 games, which led to promotion to the U.S. senior national team. - A GoFundMe set up by her parents aimed to raise $50,000 and exceeded that goal by more than $10,000 after donations including one from Travis Kelce. Summary: Edwards' Olympic appearance represents a historic milestone for U.S. women's hockey and drew visible support from her hometown community and public figures. Undetermined at this time.