Kate Martin’s selection by the Golden State Valkyries in the expansion draft makes perfect sense. Insiders may not have been shocked by the Golden State Valkyries’ selection of Kate Martin when they took the podium during the WNBA expansion draft, but fans were undoubtedly thrilled. The pick seems to be the ideal union of player and franchise in many respects.
With the Las Vegas Aces, Martin immediately won over fans. He exemplifies the qualities the Valkyries hope to develop in their first season: grit, adaptability, and a likable personality. Although she isn’t the most well-known person on paper, expansion teams occasionally require more than just catchy names. They require glue players. Martin has repeatedly demonstrated that she is just that.
Remember when she played with Caitlin Clark in Iowa? Martin quietly put that team together, but Clark’s record-breaking scoring runs made the headlines. When the spotlight was shining brightest, she was the one hitting the open three, diving for loose balls, and guiding teammates on defense. Coaches adore that consistent presence, and teammates trust it.
The Valkyries are placing a wager that the same strategy works for the pros. It’s always a challenging chemistry experiment with a new franchise. Players from various systems and personalities are being mixed together, and you’re expecting them to click almost instantly. Martin’s calming presence is beneficial not only on the court but also in the locker room, on the plane, and during the inevitable difficult times that all expansion teams encounter.
Martin adds value here because Golden State also keeps an eye on marketability. As a rookie, her jersey sales were among the highest in the league, indicating that her approachable demeanor and underdog narrative are already winning over fans. That kind of fan connection is invaluable for a team looking to make a name for itself in the already crowded Bay Area sports scene.
Finding the next MVP is ultimately not the goal of expansion drafts. They’re looking for players who help create a culture, set the tone, and lay the groundwork. Kate Martin satisfies each of those requirements. Not only was it a wise choice, but it was the kind that makes perfect sense.
