Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson React to Valkyries Taking Kate Martin in Expansion Draft

Kate Martin officially joined the Golden State Valkyries franchise on Friday night as one of their inaugural members.

The Las Vegas Aces left Martin unprotected in the 2024 WNBA expansion draft, allowing Golden State to select her along with 10 other players from different teams.

“I’m really excited,” said Martin on the ESPN broadcast. “This league is all about opportunity, and I’m thankful for the Aces but excited for this new beginning with the Valkyries.”

Martin’s college teammate at Iowa, Caitlin Clark, also expressed her excitement about the news on Instagram.

Martin, drafted 18th overall in 2024, was a beloved member of the Aces’ roster before joining the Valkyries. Her former teammates, including A’ja Wilson, reacted to her departure for the Bay Area.

Wilson shared her excitement on Instagram, calling Martin a gem and joking about giving her and coach Natalie Nakase a raise.

Martin is looking forward to the next chapter of her WNBA career in the Bay Area, with matchups against her former Aces and Fever teammates likely marked on her 2025 calendar.