Kate Martin and the Golden State Valkyries secured a 74-57 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Monday, improving their 2025 WNBA season record to 16-15. However, Martin is now listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Washington Mystics on Wednesday due to a back injury sustained late in Monday’s contest.

Martin, a former Iowa Hawkeyes guard, left the game with only 26 seconds remaining after experiencing significant pain but was able to walk off the court unaided. The Valkyries’ injury report released Tuesday confirmed Martin’s questionable status is linked to the back injury, rather than any leg-related issue, as originally suspected by observers.

Injury Concerns Affecting Valkyries Lineup

Martin has played in 29 games this season, with averages of 6.0 points on 31.4% shooting and 2.4 rebounds, all career bests. She has missed just two games this year, making her injury a potential setback for Golden State. Forward Monique Billings continues to be sidelined with a right ankle ailment, having missed six consecutive games. Meanwhile, Kayla Thornton will remain out for the rest of the season due to a right knee injury.

“Valkyries injury report for tomorrow vs. Mystics: Kate Martin – Questionable – Back Monique Billings – Out – Right Ankle Kayla Thornton – Out – Right Knee” — Kareem Copeland, WNBA Reporter

Mystics Face Injury Challenges of Their Own

Washington is also dealing with injuries as they prepare for Wednesday’s game. Shakira Austin is listed as questionable with leg soreness, while Georgia Amoore remains sidelined after suffering an ACL tear before the season began. These absences complicate the Mystics’ lineup as they host Golden State.

Road Trip Continues for Valkyries After Washington Matchup

Following their game against the Mystics, Kate Martin and the Valkyries will conclude their two-game road trip on Friday facing Kamilla Cardoso and the Chicago Sky. The team will hope Martin’s back injury does not hinder their efforts during the critical stretch of the season.