The Golden State Valkyries started on a high note with a 91-80 victory on the opening day of the 2026 season. Although the team was getting ready for the first game of the season. One question that still dominated the press conference was the removal of Kate Martin.
The Bay Area team’s decision to remove Martin hit the headlines, and the coach was already preparing for the season opener against the Seattle Storm. In the pre-game interview, Nakase gave her views on the front office’s decision.
Natalie Nakase Opens Up On Kate Martin’s Waiver
It was always difficult for the franchise to select 12 players from the training camp roster who performed well throughout camp and during preseason games. While the former Iowa star was injured during the preseason game, she was fit to play in the season. So the decision was a bit confusing for fans and media.
When reporters asked her about the waiver decision, Coach said, “A lot of heartache. Kate was our family member and someone we cared about deeply. And we still do care deeply about Kate… It’s very hard because we are trying to construct the best team.”
Coach Nakase on the Valkyries waiving Kate Martin, via @nathancanilao:
— Underdog WNBA (@UnderdogWNBA) May 8, 2026
"A lot of heartache. Kate was our family member and someone we cared about deeply. And we still do care deeply about Kate… It's very hard because we are trying to construct the best team."
In 42 games, the player posted career-best numbers of 4.4 points and 2.2 rebounds per game in 16 minutes. After the waiver, teams can claim the player within 48 hours; otherwise, the player will remain an unrestricted free agent. The coach already set a high standard in the 2026 season for the team.
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As for the 24-year-old guard, this was devastating news, who started to play meaningful minutes in the game and also had a massive fan following at the Golden State franchise. The player also showed a strong response to the Valkyries’ decision.
Kate Martin Responds To Valkyries’ Decision
While the 24-year-old star was a key member of the Iowa Hawkeyes’ program, life in the WNBA was completely different. Her ‘unexpected’ selection handed her a chance to make her name in the pro league. But the star had limited game time with the Aces, and moving to the Valkyries was another chance for her to shine in the WNBA. Although she did her best, her performance didn’t impress the Bay region franchise, and she is now without a team.
She shared her frustration on social media, removing the names of the franchise and the Unrivaled league from her bio.
Yeah I don’t think Kate Martin coming back for that last development spot…
— Golden State Valkyries Fan Report (@valkyriesreport) May 8, 2026
She JUST removed Valkyries and Unrivaled from her ig bio 😔 pic.twitter.com/AsNgrgjybz
While the star can still play in the league with a few teams looking to add guards to their roster, Martin will have to wait patiently for further advancements.