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Valkyries Fans Will Love Kate Martin With Latest Video

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated Dec 9, 2024 1:57 PM ET

Kate Martin will have a fresh start to her young career in the WNBA after being chosen by the Golden State Valkyries in the expansion draft.

After a standout career at Iowa, Martin saw limited minutes in her rookie year with the Las Vegas Aces, averaging only 2.6 points and 1.6 rebounds in 11.5 minutes per game. She was picked by the Aces as the 18th overall pick.

With the Valkyries, the versatile guard has an opportunity to play a heavier role under coach Natalie Nakase, who was a deputy tactician of the Aces from 2022 to 2024.

Even though the new season won't tip off until May, the 24-year-old Martin has already been putting in the work. She's been toiling with popular trainer Maxwell Schmarzo, who has been sharing videos of their "competitive drills."

"Back in the lab with @katemartin one of the newest members of the @valkyries," wrote Schmarzo on Instagram on Sunday. "We compete, we lift and we get better."

He noted that they worked on Martin's change of pace by using a tennis ball, which the Valkyries guard had to chase. They also had a "two-cone shooting drill" and some "traditional shooting work" before Martin lifted weights.

"We're working on being explosive through a vertical pattern, and worked on some upper body strengthening," explained Schmarzo, who's thrilled that Martin is now playing for his hometown of Las Vegas.

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A post shared by Maxwell Schmarzo (@strong_by_science)

Aside from Martin, the Valkyries also acquired solid pieces in Temi Fagbenle, Iliana Rupert, Cecilia Zandalasini and Kayla Thornton—all of whom have won at least one championship in the WNBA.

The Valkyries' inaugural game will be against the Los Angeles Sparks.

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

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