Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin, who began her WNBA career with the Las Vegas Aces after a strong five-year collegiate tenure at Iowa, now faces an uncertain future as the trade deadline nears. Drafted 18th overall in 2024, Martin was chosen by Golden State in the Expansion Draft but has recently seen a reduction in her playing time despite increased minutes earlier this season.
Decreased Playing Time Sparks Questions About Martin’s Future
Martin appeared in 34 games during her rookie season but has been phased out of head coach Natalie Nakase’s rotation in recent contests. In Golden State’s recent victory over the Dallas Wings, Martin did not play at all despite the team having a short bench, leading to speculation regarding her place on the roster.
Marisa Ingemi of the San Francisco Chronicle highlighted the difficult decision the Valkyries face about whether to keep Martin as a core player or explore trading options before the August 7 deadline. She stated,
“Head coach Natalie Nakase didn’t play guard Kate Martin at all in Friday’s win despite the short bench,”
and added,
“Forward Stephanie Talbot got similar treatment before the Valkyries waived her… Martin is the only player left on the roster who has been healthy-scratched for multiple games, but she is also under contract, so she might be a long-term player to build around if the Valkyries choose.”
—Marisa Ingemi, San Francisco Chronicle
Coaching Decisions and Contract Considerations Shape Martin’s Standing
After Martin’s most recent game-day inactive status, Nakase explained that the team is carefully managing minutes due to a compressed schedule following the All-Star break. However, the coach’s remarks about All-Star forward Kayla Thornton’s missed practices, which were later attributed to a season-ending surgery, suggest other factors beyond rest may be influencing lineup choices.
With Martin under contract through 2027, including a club option worth $85,745, the Valkyries must determine if she figures into their long-term plans. If she does not regularly contribute following the break, a trade or a different role could be considered.
Season Overview Reflects Moderate Performance Amid Uncertainty
During the 22 games she has played this season, Martin averaged 6.8 points and 2.4 rebounds while shooting 34.7%. The approximately 5.3-minute increase in her playing time earlier in the season suggested growing confidence, though that momentum has stalled recently.
Upcoming Trade Deadline Could Define Martin’s Future with Golden State
With just days remaining before the trade window closes, the Valkyries face a pivotal choice about Martin’s place on the roster. Their decision will impact not only her career trajectory but also the team’s strategy moving forward, as Golden State seeks balance amid a challenging season schedule and roster adjustments.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Was Kate Martin picked?
A. Martin has earned four master’s degrees in different areas: instructional design, public health, gerontology, and healthcare administration. She got her medical degree from the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine.
Q. What pick was Kate Martin?
A. Kate was chosen by the Las Vegas Aces as the 18th overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Q. Did Kate Martin ever tear her ACL?
A. Kate Martin is all set for the new season after an ACL injury ended her freshman year prematurely.
Q. Did Kate Martin tear her ACL?
A. In June 2018, it was revealed that Martin injured her left ACL and lateral meniscus during practice for the IBCA high school all-star game. Because of this injury, she had to skip the entire 2018–19 season. Martin got another year of eligibility by redshirting.