LOOK: Caitlin Clark Roasts Former Iowa Teammate Kate Martin Over Bold ‘Adam Sandler Style’ Look 4 Jun 19, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (left) greets Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin (right) before the game at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

'Proud Of You': Caitlin Clark Shows Love To Kate Martin Following Stellar Performance Against Fever

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 1:14 PM ET

Caitlin Clark is still down but not out. While she’s still on the sidelines nursing herself back to full fitness, she can still be the 6th man that her team needs. In this story, Kate Martin didn’t need a spotlight to make her mark, she just needed a chance. In Golden State’s recent win over Indiana, Martin came off the bench to full effect with her 10 points plus long-range accuracy. Just another good way to get your shooting engine running

But what made the moment resonate wasn’t just the stat sheet. After the game, Caitlin Clark posted a photo of the two together with a short message: “@katmartin proud of you.” The words were few, but the meaning ran deep.

Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin have made a connection since Iowa. Even while recovering from injury, Caitlin Clark just couldn’t keep quiet when it came to giving her teammate a morale push. Just another show of that strong web that links them.

That makes fans happy, too. While Caitlin Clark was praising Martin, fans are praising Clark for keeping that fight in her heart despite her legs, or in this case groin, being down and out. They feel that current and future leaders need this attribute. Being away doesn’t mean you go away.

You could call it a breakthrough performance for Martin. Either way, Caitlin Clark’s response was a reflection of something deeper. They have this link that injury can’t sever.

Caitlin Clark’s Off-Court Gesture Leaves a Lasting Impression

Caitlin Clark wasn’t in uniform during Indiana’s game in Sacramento, but she still made an impact off the court.

Aari McDonald made arrangements for her AAU team. The AAU was to be given a VIP treatment, hoping to give the girls a memorable experience. Caitlin Clark stepped in for McDonald to help enhance their experience and brighten up their already bright day.

Aari McDonald (left) and Caitlin Clark (right). Photo credits: Imagn

Afterward, McDonald shared her appreciation online:

“Thank you @caitlinclark for making my girls’ night. Bummed I couldn’t be there, but s/o to my teammates for taking a picture with my aau team,” Aari McDonald posted on IG.

It’s not easy to get the respect of everyone in your field. Caitlin Clark could either be giving out plenty of effort or it’s really just how she is no matter what anyone thinks of her. Either way, its moments like these that show why Caitlin Clark continues to be one of the most respected figures in the WNBA. Small gestures sometimes ripple into big signs.

Aug 31, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (center) stands on the court before the game against the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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