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Jun 14, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin (20) attempts a three point basket against the Seattle Storm in the third quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

'Shabooya': Kate Martin Rallies Behind Veronica Burton’s Bid For Major WNBA Award

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Sep 2, 2025 12:00 PM ET

Kate Martin is making noise for her teammate Veronica Burton—and she’s doing it with rhythm. In a recent Instagram story, Kate Martin posted a reel of Burton’s highlights with the caption: “Her name is V, she brings the heat, she should be MIP. Shabooya.” The chant wasn’t just catchy—it was a full-throated endorsement for Burton’s case as the WNBA’s Most Improved Player.

Burton has transformed her game since joining the Golden State Valkyries. Last season, she averaged just 3.1 points and 1.9 assists. This year, she’s putting up 12.1 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. Her shooting has improved across the board, and she’s already made history—becoming the only player to record 24 points and 14 assists in a game without a single turnover.

Kate Martin , a sophomore guard for the Valkyries, has seen Burton’s growth up close. The two have shared the court during a season filled with injuries and pressure. With All-Star Kayla Thornton sidelined, Burton stepped up as the team’s anchor. Coach Natalie Nakase praised her leadership, saying Burton stayed true to her style: “She said, ‘Coach, I lead with encouragement and positivity.’”

Kate Martin’s support isn’t just about stats—it’s about heart. She’s watched Burton rise from being cut to becoming the team’s most reliable player. And with the Valkyries fighting for a playoff spot, Burton’s impact is impossible to ignore.

Jun 14, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin (20) looks on against the Seattle Storm in the second quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

For Kate Martin, the message is clear: Burton deserves her flowers. And maybe a trophy, too.

Kate Martin Sees Veronica Burton’s Remarkable Growth

Kate Martin didn’t hold back when asked about Veronica Burton’s rise this season. “She’s our leader and best player. To go from getting cut last year to being the most improved this year, it’s remarkable. I’m grateful I don’t play against her anymore,” Kate Martin told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Bouncing back from getting released by your team is hard considering that you’d think it was all over. But then Burton was picked up by the Golden State Valkyries in the expansion draft. Since then, she’s become the team’s engine stepping up when it matters most.

May 21, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Valkyries guard Veronica Burton (22) dribbles up court with guard Kate Martin (20) during a game against Washington Mystics in the first quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Kate Martin was there. And she was witness to the struggles and joys that Burton’s career have gone through. And while it’s not easy for anyone to see the struggles behind her success, Martin knows that her resilience and growth meant something.

Bringing the conversation to present day, the Valkyries are still chasing a playoff spot. The road to glory is messy and costly. But Kate Martin believes that Burton will be with her when they drag the team over the line.

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

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