Here’s the latest I can share based on recent coverage:
Direct answer
- Kate Martin's status in the WNBA has involved multiple team changes and injury updates in 2026 headlines, including her waiver from the Golden State Valkyries and subsequent signings that put her with the Los Angeles Sparks in a development role, as reported by multiple outlets in May 2026. Her earlier 2025 season with Golden State featured solid playing time and production before the waiver move.[2][3][4]
Context and background
- Kate Martin is a guard who entered the league as a 2024 draft pick (Las Vegas Aces) and later spent time with the Valkyries, contributing in 2025 before facing a season-start waiver in 2026.[3][5]
- Her signings in 2026 included joining the Los Angeles Sparks’ development pool, which allows practice and potential activation for up to a limited number of games, under a new CBA framework referenced in coverage of her move.[4]
- Coverage of her situation also touched on commentary from college coach Dawn Staley and broader discussion about team decisions surrounding her roster status in early May 2026.[2]
Recent themes (what to watch)
- Return-to-play timeline: after a Grade 2 right quad strain noted in late April 2026, her availability for Sparks’ opening or early-season games is monitored, with potential workload management depending on activation.[1]
- Team fit and development role: the Sparks’ acquisition is framed as a development path rather than an immediate full roster spot, influencing how soon she might contribute in regular-season games.[4]
- Media landscape: multiple outlets have tracked her waiver, signing, and subsequent reactions, including discussions around impact and potential interest from other teams.[5][3][2]
If you’d like, I can:
- Compile a concise timeline of Kate Martin’s 2025–2026 season moves with dates and team names.
- Create a short chart showing her game appearances and points per game across seasons, once you confirm you want a visual.
Sources
“You don’t have to hire the best trainers or have the best basketball or have the best clothes and look a certain way,” the fan favorite tells Women's Health. “Just be you, and go have fun.”
www.womenshealthmag.comKate Martin has found a new home. After the Golden State Valkyries released her on Thursday, just a day before the season officially kicked off, Martin has now signed with the Los Angeles Sparks.
www.yardbarker.comKate Martin player info, news, stats, game logs, videos, fantasy, and more on NBC Sports.
www.nbcsports.comKate Martin played a huge role in the Golden State Valkyries’ run to the playoffs in their inaugural 2025 season. The guard appeared in 42 games and averaged 6.2 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 32.3% from the field and 31% from three-point range.
www.yardbarker.com.
www.on3.comGet the latest WNBA news on Kate Martin. Stay up to date with WNBA player news, rumors, updates, analysis, social feeds, and more at FOX Sports.
www.foxsports.comGet all the most recent Kate Martin player news, headlines, injury updates, transactions, and more on NBC Sports.
www.nbcsports.com