Sparks Rule Out Kate Martin Decision After 4 Games

Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Sparks Rule Out Kate Martin Decision After 4 Games

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated May 29, 2026 7:17 PM ET

Kate Martin’s third WNBA season was expected to be another step forward in her development as a pro. Instead, she found herself in a tough spot before the season started after Golden State Valkyries waived her during final roster cuts. It was a surprising decision considering Martin had become one of the franchise’s more recognizable fan favorites during its inaugural season.

Despite the early setback, Martin soon found herself on another team. The Los Angeles Sparks signed the 25-year-old guard to a player development contract on May 10, just hours before their season opener. The move gave the former Iowa Hawkeyes standout another opportunity to remain in the league while continuing her development within Lynne Roberts’ system.

Los Angeles Sparks guard Kate Martin (21).Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Martin eventually made her season debut with the Sparks against the Toronto Tempo and has since appeared in four games overall. She is currently averaging 2.8 points per game and played a season-high 18 minutes during her second appearance of the season.

The Sparks enter Friday night’s road matchup against the Washington Mystics after consecutive wins over the Phoenix Mercury and Las Vegas Aces. But hours before tip-off, the team made a notable decision regarding Martin’s availability.

The Sparks officially ruled Martin out for Friday’s game, listing the absence as a coaching decision. It marks her first inactive designation since making her season debut with the franchise. There was no health concern attached to her status on the injury report.

Sania listed as OUT as well as the developmental players (Kate Martin, Laura Ziegler). https://t.co/2NAy503jin
— Rey-Rey (@TheNoLookPass) May 29, 2026

Martin remains on a player development contract, which means her minute distribution will be more fluid than it would be for a standard active-roster player. Developmental players can only appear in 12 games during the season, and coaching staffs often manage those appearances carefully depending on matchup needs and rotational priorities.

Without Martin available Friday, the Sparks will lean on Kelsey Plum and Ariel Atkins as they attempt to move above .500 for the first time this season. Tip-off against the Mystics is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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