Kate Martin played a huge role in the Golden State Valkyries’ run to the playoffs in their inaugural 2025 season. The guard appeared in 42 games and averaged 6.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 32.3% from the field and 31% from three-point range.
Her toughness and perimeter defense quickly made her a fan favorite and a valuable rotational piece. She was expected to take on an even bigger role in 2026 as the Valkyries entered their second season with higher expectations.
But that plan took a hit during training camp as Martin suffered a Grade 2 right quad strain late in April.
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The injury sidelined her for the remainder of preseason, and as of early May she was still progressing in her recovery. She was being re-evaluated on a day-to-day basis with hopes of returning relatively soon.
But on Thursday, the Valkyries shocked the WNBA world when they announced they have waived Martin.
The move comes as a surprise given Martin’s contributions last season and the fact she was still recovering from injury.
The former Iowa Hawkeye went undrafted in 2024 but signed with the Las Vegas Aces. She was then selected by the Valkyries in the 2025 expansion draft and carved out a solid role in her second year, showing steady improvement on both ends of the floor.
At 25 years old, Martin has now been placed on waivers, meaning teams have up to 48 hours to claim her contract. She has proven herself as a reliable guard with strong intangibles and defensive versatility and several teams are expected to show interest.
The Valkyries will now move forward with a thinner backcourt as they prepare for their May 8 regular season opener against the Seattle Storm. Martin’s future remains open, and many in the WNBA will be watching where her next chapter begins.
