Kate Martin Joins Los Angeles Sparks on Developmental Contract

Kate Martin signed a player-development contract with the Los Angeles Sparks after being waived by the Golden State Valkyries. The agreement permits her to practice with the team and be activated for a maximum of 12 regular-season games. As of her first week, she has not yet appeared in a game but remains on the active roster for future activation.

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Martin entered the WNBA with the Las Vegas Aces, spent the 2025-26 season with the expansion-drafted Golden State Valkyries, and was released just before the 2026 season began. The Sparks contract represents her third WNBA team in as many years, positioning her to compete for a full-time roster spot.

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• May 10, 2026 – Martin arrived in Los Angeles, held a brief media availability, and announced her signing.

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• May 13, 2026 – Prior to the Sparks’ matchup with the Indiana Fever, she praised the team’s reception in a pre-game interview.

Kate Martin’s Message to Caitlin Clark After Indiana Fever Game Is Clear

• Wednesday (mid-May) – Martin attended the Sparks-Fever game at Crypto.com Arena, watched the 87-78 Fever victory, and exchanged a post-game hug with former Iowa teammate Caitlin Clark.

Kate Martin’s Message to Caitlin Clark After Indiana Fever Game Is Clear

The developmental contract limits Martin to participation in up to 12 games during the season. She was not activated for the Wednesday game, but the Sparks’ schedule includes future matchups on June 27 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse and July 28 in Los Angeles, where activation remains possible.

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Martin expressed gratitude for the Sparks’ welcoming environment, attributing the seamless transition to the team’s leadership and veteran presence. She emphasized that the move aligns with her professional goals and indicated a strong commitment to contributing to the organization.

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• “Honestly the team has welcomed me with open arms and I feel very grateful for that,” — Kate Martin, guard

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• “And honestly it feels seamless. Kind of feels like I’ve been here for awhile and I think that speaks to the great leadership and vets that are on this team.” — Kate Martin, guard

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• “I just had to do what’s best for me and my career,” — Kate Martin, guard

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• “Bye Cait, I love you.” — Kate Martin, guard (post-game to Caitlin Clark)

Kate Martin’s Message to Caitlin Clark After Indiana Fever Game Is Clear

Martin attended the Wednesday game at Crypto.com Arena, supporting the Sparks from the bench. After the final buzzer, she embraced Caitlin Clark, exchanged a brief conversation, and posted an Instagram story stating, “Proud of this girl,” while sharing Clark’s own post about the reunion.

Kate Martin’s Message to Caitlin Clark After Indiana Fever Game Is Clear

The Sparks will face the Indiana Fever again on June 27 in Indiana and on July 28 in Los Angeles. Martin’s activation status for those contests has not been disclosed, but the limited-game provision leaves room for her to contribute later in the season.

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