Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin made headlines for something a little different than her usual hustle plays. The rookie announced a brand-new partnership with Rakuten, stepping into the world of fashion and lifestyle while continuing to carve out her place in the WNBA spotlight.
The collaboration highlights Martin’s pregame looks, which she’ll be sharing through her Instagram Stories. Fans will be able to shop those exact outfits thanks to a connection with Saks and Rakuten’s cashback platform. It’s a move that feels perfectly timed—not only does it tap into the growing culture of “tunnel fits” in basketball, but it also gives Martin a chance to expand her brand beyond the hardwood.
For those who’ve followed Martin’s journey from Iowa to the pros, this announcement feels like another reminder of her versatility. She’s always been known as “The Glue” on the court, holding teams together with her energy and leadership. Now, she’s showing that same adaptability off the court, seamlessly blending basketball with a growing interest in fashion.
It’s not unusual for WNBA stars to shine in this space—A’ja Wilson, Kahleah Copper, and even Martin’s teammate Kelsey Plum have turned pregame tunnels into mini runways. What makes Martin’s step into the spotlight stand out, though, is how authentic it feels. She isn’t chasing a trend; she’s simply letting fans in on another side of who she is.
And the timing couldn’t be better. The WNBA continues to see a surge in popularity, and brands are finally starting to catch up with what fans have known all along: these athletes are more than just players. They’re cultural influencers, role models, and in Martin’s case, someone who can connect both the basketball and fashion worlds in a down-to-earth way.
For Valks fans, it’s another reason to celebrate their rookie standout. Whether she’s diving for loose balls, hyping up her teammates, or now, sharing her off-court style, Martin keeps finding ways to leave her mark. Yesterday’s news only confirms what many already believed—Kate Martin’s impact stretches well beyond the court.
