The Golden State Valkyries entered Friday night’s game against the Dallas Wings struggling with a three-game losing streak that had pushed them out of playoff contention. Their hopes of becoming the first expansion team in WNBA history to reach the postseason were dealt a blow when star forward Kayla Thornton was ruled out for the rest of the season due to knee surgery.
Thornton, who had recently participated in her first WNBA All-Star Game, sustained the injury during practice, confirming that she will not return this year. This significant loss left the Valkyries searching for ways to fill the gap in their lineup.
Kate Martin Remains Sidelined Despite Being Available
Despite the void left by Thornton, Golden State coach Natalie Nakase chose not to increase playing time for guard Kate Martin. Martin, acquired from the Las Vegas Aces in the Expansion Draft, had seen varying minutes this season, but her court time had diminished lately. After logging only five minutes against the Phoenix Mercury, Martin received 15 minutes in the following game against the Seattle Storm, though she struggled offensively with a 1-for-7 shooting performance.
In Friday’s match against Dallas, Martin was listed as a healthy scratch, resulting in her sitting out the entire game. Fans speculated about a possible injury sidelining Martin, but Marcus Thompson III of The Athletic confirmed her availability and fitness to play.
“It’s halftime between the Valkyries and Wings. Golden State trails 36-30. The hosts are shooting just 30.3 percent from the field.And Kate Martin — who is healthy — hasn’t played a second.Surprising, especially with Kayla Thornton now out for the year” — Marcus Thompson III, Sports Journalist
Fan Reaction and Impact of Martin’s Benching
The decision to bench a healthy Kate Martin caused confusion and frustration among Valkyries supporters, many of whom expected her to take on a larger role given Thornton’s absence. Social media buzzed with debate over the coaching choice, highlighting the disconnect between expectations and the actual rotation used during the game.
Despite the controversy surrounding Martin’s minutes, Golden State managed to end their losing streak with a win against Dallas, which helped them regain some momentum in their pursuit of a playoff berth.
Looking Ahead for the Valkyries Amid Roster Adjustments
The Valkyries now face the challenge of adjusting to life without Thornton while seeking to optimize their squad’s performance. Coach Nakase’s strategy, including the limited role for Martin, will likely continue to attract scrutiny as the team fights to remain competitive. The upcoming games will be critical in assessing how Golden State adapts to the setback and whether the current rotation can sustain success through the remainder of the season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Kate Martin get $100,000?
A. The past Iowa women’s basketball players, along with all the other Aces team members, got a $100,000 sponsorship from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority on Friday.
Q. Why do they call Kate Martin money?
A. Last season, Kate Martin got the nickname “Money” because she made important shots, even though she didn’t play much as a rookie with the Las Vegas Aces.