Full Breakdown
Golden State Valkyries Waive Guard Kate Martin Ahead of 2026 Season
5/8/2026, 10:04:13 PM
Golden State Valkyries Waive Guard Kate Martin
The Golden State Valkyries announced on Thursday, May 7, 2026, that they have waived former Iowa Hawkeyes guard Kate Martin to finalize their 12-player opening-day roster. The move triggers a 48-hour waiver period after which Martin becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Roster Constraints and Rupert’s Pregnancy
The Valkyries, after a playoff-qualifying first season, must meet the WNBA’s 12-player limit and two developmental spots. Iliana Rupert’s pregnancy created a frontcourt vacancy, leading the team to prioritize point guard Kaitlyn Chen and forward Laeticia Amihere, rendering Martin expendable.
Principal Players and Potential Suitors
Key individuals are guard Kate Martin, coach Natalie Nakase, GM Ohemaa Nyanin, and center Iliana Rupert. Potential suitors include the Indiana Fever, Las Vegas Aces and Washington Mystics.
Martin’s College and WNBA Production
At Iowa, Martin recorded 900+ points, 400+ assists, 120+ steals, 60+ blocks and finished with >1,200 career points, 13.1 p pg, 6.8 r pg, 2.3 a pg. In 2025 with Golden State she appeared in 42 games (4 starts), averaging 6.2 p, 2.7 r, 1.0 a, 1.1 st in 16.4 min, shooting 32.3 % FG, 31 % 3P. Rupert shot 44.2 % 3P, 9.3 p, 3.9 r per game.
Implications for Players and Team
The cut highlights WNBA roster scarcity, opens a possible reunion for Martin with former Iowa teammate Caitlin Clark on the Indiana Fever, and frees cap space for the Valkyries to replace Rupert.
Team Leadership’s Perspective
Coach Nakase said the team’s “championship-first” mindset means “nothing carries over, not one basket, not one award,” and the goal is to “win a Championship.” GM Nyanin cited salary-cap flexibility under the new CBA for recent trades and waivers.
Fan Backlash
Fans on X called the move “dumb as h*ll” and accused the franchise of “completely f**ked up all your good will,” questioning the cut of a popular defensive player.
Discrepancies in Rationale
Sources disagree whether Martin’s Grade 2 quad strain or guard-depth concerns drove the waiver, and no official confirmation exists on a possible developmental-contract return.
Verbatim Quotes
- “For us our goal for this season is to win a Championship. Here at Golden State, that’s the standard, that’s the expectation. We only hand out banners and collect rings. So with that type of expectation, our goal is to win.” — Natalie Nakase, head coach
- “To get to their opening day roster, the Golden State Valkyries have waived Kate Martin and have also filed for a replacement contract for Iliana Rupert, who is pregnant.” — Alexa Philippou, journalist (Twitter)
- “Y’all just lost a fan.” — fan on X
- “Investigate the Valkyries bruh,” — fan on X
Outlook for Martin and Valkyries
Martin has 48 hours to clear waivers; if unclaimed she becomes a free agent eligible for standard or developmental contracts. The Indiana Fever, with a developmental slot, are a likely destination, while the Valkyries seek a center to replace Rupert, eyeing options such as Emma Meesseman.
