The 2026 season might have multiple rule changes and upgrades under the new CBA, but the roster spaces for every team remain the same. With that, the teams needed to make strong decisions about their training camp rosters, cutting the numbers to 12. With that, Kate Martin became one of the most recent high-profile names from such a list of ‘released’ players.
A few days back, the Golden State Valkyries made a surprising roster decision ahead of the 2026 WNBA season. And now the former Iowa star became the latest player out from the San Francisco franchise’s 2026 roster.
Golden State Valkyries Release Kate Martin
Ahead of the 2026 season, coach Natalie Nakase set a goal for her roster that impressed the fanbase in 2025. Even though the front office is looking to hold on to most of its 2025 roster, it is planning to use its impactful veterans and has recently confirmed its playing 12 for the season.
According to reports, her injury played a major role in the decision, as the front office sought to move forward with a healthy, versatile roster. Teams across the league now have a 48-hour window to claim Martin off waivers. If she goes unclaimed, she will become an unrestricted free agent, free to sign with any team in the league.
Kate Martin has been waived by the Golden State Valkyries pic.twitter.com/e5frx463QP
— Just Women’s Sports (@justwsports) May 7, 2026
Martin played in 42 of 44 games for the Valkyries last season following her selection in the expansion draft. She averaged 6.2 points in that period but was not part of the recent action following a Grade 2 right quad strain during the preseason.
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Although the player was happy with her improved role and performances at the Bay Area, she will now be looking for another destination to compete for the title.
Top Destinations For Kate Martin
The Valkyries waited until the end for the final roster declaration, leaving the players very little time to practice and discuss a possible move with other franchises. Yet few of the teams have players on unprotected contracts, allowing them a chance to offer ‘an escape route’ to re-enter the league.
As for the 24-year-old star, the Las Vegas Aces would be an attractive destination, with the championship team already knowing her capabilities and drafting her in the 2024 season. Although the team has a stacked backcourt lineup, the versatile star can fit easily at the number 3 position.
Kate Martin has been waived by the Valkyries 👀 pic.twitter.com/M7okAJ6I6L
— Clark Report (@CClarkReport) May 7, 2026
Another franchise that could be interested in adding the third-year vet is the Washington Mystics. The front office is clearly looking to build a team of young stars, and adding a bit-experienced player still on a rookie contract would be a massive coup for them. Interestingly, fans want to see her reunite with Caitlin Clark at the Fever side. But the franchise is already finding it difficult to release any player from its competitive lineup, let alone look to add to its dilemma.