The newly created Golden State Valkyries became the 13th WNBA franchise on October 5, 2023. The Valkyries are affiliated with the NBA's Golden State Warriors and are debuting this season. They play their home games at the Chase Center in Oakland, California.
In December 2024, the Valkyries had their expansion draft, selecting one player from each of the 12 WNBA teams. Former Iowa guard Kate Martin was chosen from the Las Vegas Aces.
Martin was a Hawkeye from 2019-2024, and averaged 8.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. She was a critical part of the Iowa Women's Basketball program that advanced to four straight NCAA Tournaments, including two straight National Championship games (2023,2024).
Martin was selected No. 18 overall by the Las Vegas Aces in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Injuries forced Martin into early playing time, and she became a solid reserve for the Aces during her rookie season.
On Friday night, she made her debut for her new team.
The Valkyries tipped off their inaugural season in front of a sold out crowd at the Chase Center in Oakland. Kate Martin suited up for her new team and was in the starting lineup. In her first game as a Valkyrie, she had a quiet night.
Martin had two points and one assist in 21 minutes in the Valkyries' 84-67 loss. She missed all three of her shot attempts, but made both of her free-throws. She will look to make a bigger impact in the Valkyries next game.
The Valkyries welcome Lucy Olsen and the Washington Mystics to Oakland for their next game on Wednesday, May 21, at 9:00 p.m. Central Time.