Kate Martin, guard for the Golden State Valkyries, has officially announced a new partnership with Rakuten to showcase her pregame style throughout the WNBA season. This announcement comes during her second year playing professionally after being drafted by the Las Vegas Aces in 2024 and later selected by Golden State in the Expansion Draft.
Despite fluctuations in her playing time this season, including a recent DNP against the Dallas Wings, Martin has maintained a strong fan following, boosted by her social media presence with over 470,000 Instagram followers. She shared the exciting news on Instagram, inviting fans to check out her pregame looks via her stories and take advantage of Rakuten’s cash-back offers.
Collaboration Extends to Valkyries’ Star Teammates
Martin is not alone in this collaboration, as her Valkyries teammates Tiffany Hayes and Monique Billings have also teamed up with Rakuten. The brand has a close relationship with the Golden State Valkyries and the Warriors organization, further solidifying its footprint in basketball culture and fashion.
Rakuten’s involvement with basketball extends beyond the WNBA. In 2023, NBA star Steph Curry announced his own partnership with Rakuten and the Black in Fashion Council, emphasizing the importance of using public moments to showcase personal values, not just appearance.
Rakuten’s Influence in Basketball and Fashion
Steph Curry reflected on the spotlight moments leading up to game time, saying,
“When you get to opening night, that five minutes when I get out the car, get off the bus, and walk into the arena, there’s cameras everywhere,” —Curry, Warriors Player
He emphasized how these moments serve as an opportunity to share what matters to him beyond just his look. Following this philosophy, Kate Martin, along with Hayes and Billings, are now using their partnership with Rakuten to highlight their pregame aesthetics while engaging with fans.
This collaboration signifies a growing trend where athletes leverage their style and platform for brand partnerships that resonate on and off the court. For Martin and the Valkyries, it presents a dynamic way to connect with supporters and celebrate individuality within the WNBA community.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Kate Martin picked?
A. In this part, she talks about her tough journey and rediscovering happiness. Kate Lawler, after years of living a party-filled life, married her partner Martin Bojtos, also known as ‘Boj’, in 2022. This joyous event happened just a year after the birth of their daughter, Noa.
Q. What is the story of Kate Martin?
A. Kate started from modest surroundings on New York City’s tough streets and became a successful WNBA player. Her story shows how hard work, determination, and strength can help achieve great things. She overcame many obstacles, like poverty, racism, and sexism, without letting them shape her identity.
Q. Was Kate Martin a 5 star recruit?
A. Denzel Gway and Kate Martin were rated as three-star athletes when they finished high school.
Q. Why do they call Kate Martin money?
A. Last season, Kate Martin was nicknamed “Money” because, as a rookie for the Las Vegas Aces, she made important shots in limited playing time.