Kate Martin developmental contract: Sparks guard talks Valkyries split

After former Iowa women's basketball star Kate Martin signed a player development contract with the Los Angeles Sparks, the third-year guard reflected on all that has transpired since being waived by the Golden State Valkyries.

"It was not easy at all. It happened on Wednesday, and obviously, it's a business decision. That's what professional sports is. It's a business. I just had to do what was best for me and my career, and I just felt this was the best decision for me, and I'm very, very excited to be here 1,000%," Martin said while batting through emotions.

"I'm definitely gonna give it my all, but that process wasn't easy. Now I feel like I can relate to a lot more people on a level that maybe I never wanted to be able to relate on, but it's only gonna help me as a leader and as a person going forward."

As Martin now joins her third franchise in as many years as a professional, following her selection with the No. 18 overall pick by the Las Vegas Aces in the 2024 WNBA Draft, the player development deal with the Sparks is a bit different from a traditional contract.

The new WNBA CBA allows teams to carry two developmental roster spots, creating in-house training channels without impacting the franchise's salary cap. These players can practice and receive stipends/benefits, but can only play a maximum of 12 games when activated.

Martin was initially drafted by the Las Vegas Aces with the No. 18 overall pick in the second round of the 2024 WNBA Draft. The 6-foot guard averaged 6.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1 assist per game during the 2025 season with Golden State.

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