Kate Martin Signs Player Development Contract - Here's What It Means

Kate Martin has fans wherever she goes.

The Las Vegas Aces drafted Martin out of Iowa in the second round of the 2024 WNBA Draft, and she developed a viral handshake with A’ja Wilson.

After the Golden State Valkyries selected Martin in the WNBA Expansion Draft in December 2024, she instantly became a fan favorite. The Valkyries became the first expansion franchise to make the WNBA playoffs in an inaugural season, and Martin was a valuable bench player.

So, it came as a surprise when the Valkyries waived Martin last Thursday - the day before the WNBA’s 30th season tipped off. As soon as the news hit, fans wondered where Martin would sign next. Many clamored for her to reunite with former Iowa teammate Caitlin Clark in Indiana.

Martin signed a player development contract with the Los Angeles Sparks on Sunday.

“Kate is a gifted shooter, whose grittiness and winning history mesh well with Sparks basketball," Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley said in a press release. "She’s confident in her shot, plays tenacious defense and is an unselfish, high-energy teammate. We're eager to watch Kate develop within our system.”

The Sparks’ official release also explained Martin’s player development contract: “WNBA teams can carry two developmental roster spots, creating in-house training pipelines outside the salary cap. These players practice, receive stipends/benefits, and can be activated for up to 12 games, aiding player development and team depth.”

Martin has some familiarity with the Sparks, as she and Cameron Brink were teammates on Breeze BC in Unrivaled this offseason.

It’s anyone’s guess when Martin will hit the floor for the Sparks, but the whole league is rooting for her:

The Sparks will open their 2026 regular season by hosting the defending champion Aces on Sunday at 6 p.m. EST.

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This story was originally published May 10, 2026 at 5:03 PM.