Kate Martin's WNBA Future Gets Unexpected Update

The more surprising pickup was Martin, who many expected to be one of the six players protected by the Las Vegas Aces. The 2024 second-round pick, who played college ball at Iowa with Caitlin Clark and instantly became a WNBA fan favorite, found a key role off the bench with the 2023 champions at the beginning of the season. 

However, as the year progressed, Martin's minutes started to diminish, and she didn't play much in the playoffs, excluding a few minutes of garbage time.

In 34 games played during the 2024 season, Martin averaged 2.6 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in 11.5 minutes per game.

Martin grew her popularity with the Hawkeyes from 2019 to 2024, where she and Clark helped guide Iowa to two straight national championship appearances, falling just short of the title in both.

Now, Martin will start her second WNBA chapter with the Valkyries and will likely be the most popular player on the team from the get-go. The 24-year-old will also have a shot at starter minutes and can prove her worth as she plays for a larger contract down the road.