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Kate Martin had the hot hand for the Golden State Valkyries during Sunday's game against the Minnesota Lynx, but she ended up playing just 19 minutes in the contest — only a four-and-a-half minute increase from her season average.
The 24-year-old guard finished the contest with 14 points on 4-of-8 shooting, with all her points coming in the second quarter when she just couldn't miss. She was 4-of-5 in the period, including 2-of-2 from deep.
However, after she was subbed out with 3:28 remaining in the second quarter, Martin wouldn't return again until late in the third quarter.
Naturally, the decision to sub Martin out and keep her on the bench for long confused Valkyries fans, especially since the second-year guard was playing well. It didn't help that Golden State struggled offensively in the third quarter, scoring just eight points, and eventually lost 85-76.
KATE MARTIN IS ON FIRE ‼️
— WNBA (@WNBA) June 2, 2025
11 POINTS IN 5 MINUTES.
MIN-GSV | WNBA Commissioner's Cup presented by@coinbase pic.twitter.com/PumraG528H
During and after the game, fans questioned Coach Natalie Nakase's decision, with others also demanding that the team give Martin more playing time moving forward.
"Kate was on a run then you sat her for 7 minutes, bizarre decision. When people are hot, play them!" a commenter wrote after the Valkyries' loss. Another one said, "So is Kate Martin terrible on defense? Im confused how you can score 14 points in 6 minutes then immediately go back to the bench."
A disappointed fan remarked, "Coach lost that game. She sits the leading scorer Kate Martin put who had 14pts in 6 minutes & were ahead by 5. She waits till the 4 minute mark in the 3rd quarter to put She & Vanaloo in. She was to worried about what the other coach was saying She has no clue what she is doing."
"So if Kate Martin is the lead scorer tonight, why is she on the bench?" a viewer noticed during the contest.
A baffled supporter added, "Kate Martin scores 14 points in 6 minutes, gets them the lead, and is back to riding the bench… why? I’m so confused."
"Kate Martin should be a starter!" a follower exclaimed. Another fan pleaded, "please give martin more time."
While it's certainly unfortunate that the Valkyries didn't capitalize on her offensive explosion, it's still a positive result for Martin, since she proved that she can make an impact on the team.
To recall, Martin did not play during Thursday's game against the New York Liberty following a string of poor performances.
After Sunday, Martin should see an uptick in her playing time — or at least get a more consistent role with the team.
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Steelers Sign Former Eagles Versatile OL
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Blue Jays' Trey Yesavage is already making the rest of MLB look foolish for passing on him
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