Kate Martin reacts to Valkyries departure in unexpected move for former Caitlin Clark teammate

Speaking to reporters after landing in Los Angeles on Sunday, Martin became visibly choked up as she discussed the whirlwind of the past few days.

"Obviously it's a business decision, that's what professional sports is," Martin said. "I just had to do what was best for me and my career. I just felt that this was the best decision for me, and I'm very, very excited to be here, 1000 percent."

Martin said she can now relate to so many players who have bounced around the WNBA looking for a place to call "home." The 25-year-old guard is hoping that comes to fruition in LA.

As for the Valkyries, Martin's reaction to the unexpected cut does raise further questions about the franchise's culture and how it fits with the rest of the WNBA.

True, the Valkyries did land Gabby Williams in one of the bigger coups of the free agent period. But Golden State's front office, under the direction of general manager  Ohemaa Nyanin, has been hammered in the weeks since a polarizing draft night trade sent Flau'jae Johnson to the Seattle Storm.

The player that the Valkyries got in return, Marta Suarez, was waived in training camp and signed a development contract with the Phoenix Mercury.

More WNBA news:

• Paige Bueckers hit Sophie Cunningham with the 'too small' in Wings win over Fever
• Lynx's Olivia Miles WNBA debut stats had only been done once before, by Candace Parker
• Azzi Fudd’s quiet WNBA debut won’t change the bigger picture for Dallas
• Angel Reese's Atlanta Dream debut stats were the most Angel Reese game ever