Kate Martin, the rookie guard from Iowa, has quickly made a significant impact on the Las Vegas Aces. On Sunday night, she made her first WNBA start in a close 96-92 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks, the same team she debuted against on May 18 in an 89-82 victory for the Aces. Despite the defeat, there is a sense of optimism surrounding Martin’s performance and potential.
A’ja Wilson, the team’s superstar forward, sees the early challenges as beneficial for Martin and the rest of the team as they gear up for the postseason. Wilson emphasized the importance of treating every game like a playoff game, ensuring that the team is always prepared for the highest level of competition. “I love particularly for Kate to be in these situations, so when October rolls around, it’s not a punch in the face. It’s familiar,” Wilson stated.
The Aces’ season hasn’t been as smooth as last year’s, with Sunday’s loss bringing their record to 5-4. This is a stark contrast to last season, where they didn’t lose their fourth game until August. As the back-to-back defending WNBA champions, the Aces are facing heightened competition and are also dealing with injuries. Point guard Chelsea Gray has yet to play this season due to a lower left-leg injury, and forward Kierstan Bell has been sidelined since the season opener with a lower right-leg injury. Additionally, guard Jackie Young was out with an illness on Sunday, further depleting the team’s bench.
With the team down to nine healthy players, coach Becky Hammon showed her confidence in Martin by giving her the starting nod. Hammon expressed no concerns about Martin’s readiness, likening her to Alysha Clark in terms of preparation and dedication. “She’s my little (Alysha Clark) out there, so she’s going to be prepared,” Hammon said. “She’s going to study. She’s probably overstudying, actually.”
Martin did not disappoint in her first start, scoring a career-high 13 points while making all three of her 3-point attempts. She also contributed four rebounds and three assists, showcasing her versatility and ability to fit seamlessly into the team both on and off the court. Her performance and attitude have quickly won over fans and teammates alike. In Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, Martin received loud cheers and saw signs supporting her, highlighting her rapid rise in popularity.
Reflecting on her journey, Martin expressed her surprise and gratitude for the opportunity to play in the WNBA. As the 18th pick in April’s draft, she came in with no expectations but has found joy in every moment. “I got an opportunity and I made the best team in the world. It’s just been a lot of fun since. Obviously, it would be more fun if we got the win tonight,” Martin said.
The Aces have embraced Martin, balancing playful teasing with genuine support. Wilson, in particular, has been a mentor to her, and Martin is deeply appreciative. “I’m sitting next to the best player in the world. And not only is she the best player in the world, she’s the best leader I’ve ever been around,” Martin said. She feels inspired and confident, especially when Wilson encourages her to stay aggressive and keep shooting.
This praise and mentorship mirror the sentiments of Caitlin Clark, Martin’s former Iowa teammate and now an Indiana star rookie, who once described Martin as the best leader she had ever encountered. “She is somebody you want on your team no matter what sport it is, male or female,” Clark said.
Martin’s presence has provided the Aces with a bright spot during a challenging start to their season. Her impressive debut and the team’s faith in her abilities suggest that she will be a key player as the season progresses and the Aces aim for another championship run.
