Las Vegas Aces Becky Hammon spoke highly of her former player Kate Martin when asked about her future in the league. Martin’s path to the 2026 WNBA season included several roster moves.
She was waived by the Golden State Valkyries on Thursday as part of the team’s final roster cuts ahead of the regular season. The Los Angeles Sparks picked Martin up on a developmental contract shortly after.
The Sparks are Martin’s third different team in three seasons. Speaking to the media after Sunday’s Aces-Sparks game, Hammon gave her thoughts on Martin.
“(Martin is) great in the locker room, great teammate, super hard worker,” said Hammon. “She’s somebody who came in with pro habits and a lot of times from college, that’s hard to do, but she came in and was a nice piece for us.”
Martin played under Hammon during her time with the Las Vegas Aces in her rookie year. She played 34 games, averaging 2.6 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. She was with the Valkyries last season, recording 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds in 42 games.
Kate Martin touches on her expectations after signing with the Los Angeles Sparks
Martin spoke to the media shortly after signing a developmental contract with the Los Angeles Sparks, outlining her expectations for the upcoming season.
“Now my expectations for myself are to buy into being an L.A. Spark,” Martin said. “I know that roles are ever changing throughout the season, but right now, I’m gonna be where my feet are, and I’m going to buy into this role as a development player. I’m going to learn, I’m going to grow, and I’m just going to make the most of this opportunity.”
Speaking on Martin’s signing, Sparks coach Lynne Roberts called her a “great fit.”
“It’s a great fit for us,” Sparks coach Lynne Roberts said. “Thrilled how that worked out. It’s no secret, I love shooters. I think it’s a great add. And I think this gives her a chance in the developmental spot to just kind of settle and really pour into the player development. Her work ethic is unbelievable.”
Martin did not see any playing time in the Sparks’ 105-78 loss against the Aces on Sunday. Her 3-point shooting and motor could see her become a part of Roberts’ rotation. She could make her debut for the team on Wednesday when Los Angeles takes on the Indiana Fever.
Read More: Why Was Kate Martin Waived? Valkyries Coach Reveals Real Reason Behind Massive Decision
