The Golden State Valkyries have waived Kate Martin, the team announced Thursday, May 7.
The news comes as the Valkyries were set to open the 2026 season on Friday, May 8, against the Seattle Storm.
The former Iowa women’s basketball star joined Golden State in the team’s 2024 WNBA expansion draft ahead of its first season in 2025 after spending her rookie season with the Las Vegas Aces.
Here’s what we know.
Why did the Golden State Valkyries waive Kate Martin?
Golden State leaders, such as head coach Natalie Nakase and general manager Ohemaa Nyanin, have yet to comment on Martin’s release. Martin was diagnosed with a Grade II right quad strain on April 28 after injuring it in practice, but said in a news conference on May 5 that it was progressing well.
Martin, who turns 26 in June, said she missed the last weeks of practice due to the injury.
Golden State’s opening day roster lists six guards, including 2025 WNBA Most Improved Player Veronica Burton.
Martin started in the team’s 78-76 preseason win on April 25 against the Storm, recording 8 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists in 23 minutes. She averaged 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds for Golden State during its inaugural campaign, which included a first-round playoff appearance.
Golden State could bring her back on a developmental deal, according to USA TODAY. Or, possibly, Martin could reunite with former teammate Caitlin Clark in Indiana, where the Fever currently has one open developmental roster spot.
Cooper Worth is a service/trending reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at cworth@gannett.com or follow him on X @CooperAWorth.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Golden State Valkyries cut former Iowa star Kate Martin. What’s next?
Reporting by Cooper Worth, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
