Startling Double Signing! Kaila Charles Returns with Valkyries — Kate Martin Signs Huge WNBA Contract After Transitioning from Iowa’s Glue to Pro Star Fans Go Crazy!
Although roster changes have happened frequently for the Golden State Valkyries this season, the news on Friday sent their supporters into a frenzy. The team announced that Kate Martin had landed a big WNBA deal, the kind that solidifies her position as a key component of the team’s future, and re-signed Kaila Charles to a second hardship contract in a flurry of transactions.
After an outstanding first stint on a seven-day hardship contract that started on August 1, Charles is making a comeback. She immediately established herself, shooting an incredible 68.8% from the field and averaging 9.7 points and 5 rebounds in just over 20 minutes per game. It was obvious to bring Charles back because the Valkyries were still dealing with injuries, including losing All-Star forward Kayla Thornton for the season. She is the type of player who can quickly adjust and fill in any gaps without losing a beat.
The more significant headline followed: Kate Martin, the former Iowa standout who was credited with being the “glue” that kept her collegiate team together, has formally signed a big contract with the Valkyries. Her journey—the steady, unsung worker who becomes a pro league star—is the kind of sports narrative that fans adore. Martin did everything at Iowa: defending, chasing down lost balls, and setting up teammates. She wasn’t always the one making headlines. That same work ethic has now paid off handsomely in the WNBA.
The excitement of the fans was unrestrained. Posts praising both moves were widely shared on social media, with many highlighting how Martin’s ascent serves as a model for any young athlete who questions whether commitment and perseverance are truly important. They do, spoiler alert.
The Valkyries’ short-term depth is increased by this “double signing,” which also shows that they are dedicated to assembling a team of players who are dependable and tough. Stability has been difficult to find in a season marked by frequent change, with 19 players used and 14 different starting lineups.
With Martin taking on a more significant, long-term role and Charles offering immediate reinforcement, the Valkyries just gave their supporters two compelling reasons to think the season’s best part may still be coming.
