Kate Martin was waived by the Golden State Valkyries on May 6, surprising many fans. She has since signed a developmental contract with the Los Angeles Sparks and expressed her emotional journey during the transition.
Key points
Kate Martin was waived by the Golden State Valkyries on May 6.
Her release was surprising to fans and analysts.
She signed a developmental contract with the Los Angeles Sparks.
Martin expressed emotional challenges regarding her exit.
She aims to use her experience to grow as a leader.
Kate MartinGolden State ValkyriesLos Angeles Sparks
Martin, a fan favorite, was waived by the Valkyries on May 6 as the team finalized its opening-day roster for the 2026 WNBA season. Her release was somewhat surprising. Martin was one of the first players Golden State chose during its 2024 expansion draft.
On May 10, after signing a developmental contract with the Los Angeles Sparks, Martin opened up to the media about her exit from Golden State. The new Sparks guard was visibly emotional as she discussed leaving her former team.
"Obviously, it was not easy at all," Martin said as she looked up, attempting to stifle tears. She apologized before pausing for a moment to gather herself and continue speaking.
"It happened on Wednesday (May 6), and like, obviously, it's business decision. That's what professional sports is, a business. I just had to do what was best for me and my career ... I just felt this was the best decision for me, and I'm very, very, excited to be here 1,000%. I'm definitely gonna give it my all, but that process wasn't easy, and now I feel like I can relate to a lot more people on a level that I never wanted to be able to relate on. It's only going to help me as a leader and as a person going forward."
2026: Azzi Fudd, Dallas Wings (Connecticut)
Q&A
Why was Kate Martin waived by the Golden State Valkyries?
Kate Martin was waived as the Valkyries finalized their opening-day roster for the 2026 WNBA season.
What team did Kate Martin join after leaving the Valkyries?
After her exit from the Valkyries, Kate Martin signed a developmental contract with the Los Angeles Sparks.
How did Kate Martin feel about her exit from the Valkyries?
Kate Martin was visibly emotional about her exit, stating it was a difficult business decision but expressing excitement for her new opportunity with the Sparks.
When did Kate Martin's release from the Valkyries occur?
Kate Martin was released from the Golden State Valkyries on May 6.
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Martin revealed that transitioning to the Sparks didn't make her feel like a rookie joining a new team. She also knew several members of the franchise from her time at Unrivaled during her WNBA offseasons. The new Los Angeles guard says that helped make her decision to join the team a bit easier."I chose Los Angeles because of the way they approached me. They wanted me here," Martin said.
"I had really good talks with coach (Lynne) Roberts. I had really good talks with Raegan (Pebley), the GM, and I felt really confident in my decision ... I just feel honored for the opportunity. Opportunities don't always come around in this league. For the year that I got cut to be a year where there are development spots, I feel very, very grateful for that. My job now is just to buy in and to make the most of my opportunity."
