In another shocking and perplexing roster-management move by the Golden State Valkyries, the Bay Area franchise announced on May 7 that it has officially waived former Iowa women’s basketball guard Kate Martin.
Martin began her career with the Las Vegas Aces as a second-round pick (No. 18 overall) in the 2024 WNBA Draft, the same draft class as her Iowa teammate and close friend Caitlin Clark.
After spending one year in Las Vegas, Martin joined Golden State in the team’s 2024 WNBA expansion draft ahead of the franchise’s first season in 2025, where she served primarily as a sharp-shooting 3-point option off the bench and averaged 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds per game.
While there are many theories as to why Martin was waived, her recent Grade II right quad injury suffered in the team’s lone preseason game may have forced Golden State’s hand. Although she has been recovering on a day-to-day basis, the team may have viewed another depth guard as a better option for their immediate future this season.
The Valkyries’ move now places Martin on the WNBA’s waiver wire, making her available for the 14 other franchises to claim. If she successfully clears waivers, she would essentially be a free agent and could still re-sign with Golden State on a developmental deal, according to USA TODAY.
However, there is a possibility that Martin could reunite with Caitlin Clark on the Fever’s roster through the same process, as Indiana currently has one remaining developmental spot open, as of May 7.
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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Golden State Valkyries waive former Hawkeye Kate Martin
Reporting by Scout Springgate, Hawkeyes Wire / Hawkeyes Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
