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LA Sparks Sign Kate Martin After Valkyries Waiver

5/11/2026

35 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Martin Joins Sparks

The Los Angeles Sparks signed guard Kate Martin to a roster spot on May 10, 2026, paying $6,136 per game and a $750 stipend when inactive.
She was waived by the Golden State Valkyries four days earlier and had averaged 6.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 35.5% three-point shooting.
Martin chose Los Angeles because coach Lynne Roberts made her feel wanted and she will reunite with former Aces teammate Kelsey Plum.

Summary

Martin Signs

The 2026 collective bargaining agreement gives each WNBA team two developmental roster spots outside the salary cap.
Development players earn a weekly stipend, a pro-rated minimum salary, and can be activated for up to 12 games.
Kate Martin was released from Golden State partly because she suffered a Grade 2 right quad strain in April training camp.
Sparks GM Raegan Pebley said Martin’s grit and winning history fit the team’s style.

Summary

Martin Enters Pool

The Golden State Valkyries drafted Flau'Jae Johnson, traded her to the Seattle Storm for Marta Suarez, then waived both Suarez and Kate Martin before the 2026 season.
Kate Martin entered the Sparks' development pool while day-to-day after a Grade II quad strain, so she could play once healed.
The Sparks now carry six guards on a young roster that relies on veterans Kelsey Plum, Dearica Hamby and Nneka Ogwumike for leadership.

History

Historical Context

Approved in 1996 and launched in 1997 with eight teams, the WNBA saw the Houston Comets capture the first championship. The league’s 2026 season continues that foundation, featuring the Los Angeles Sparks and supporting expansion franchises such as the Golden State Valkyries, keeping growth through innovation overall and for the future.

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Martin Joins Sparks

The Los Angeles Sparks signed guard Kate Martin to a roster spot on May 10, 2026, paying $6,136 per game and a $750 stipend when inactive.
She was waived by the Golden State Valkyries four days earlier and had averaged 6.2 points, 2.7 rebounds and 35.5% three-point shooting.
Martin chose Los Angeles because coach Lynne Roberts made her feel wanted and she will reunite with former Aces teammate Kelsey Plum.

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