There’s no question that Caitlin Clark is the biggest superstar from the Iowa Hawkeyes to be selected in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
But Clark’s teammate, Kate Martin, is a closer second place than many people had realized, prior to Saturday.
Martin is adored by Hawkeye fans. And after her performance for the Las Vegas Aces during her WNBA Debut on Saturday, against the Los Angeles Sparks.
Watch this moment!
While the Aces started their season against the Phoenix Mercury on May 14, Martin didn’t see any playing time during that game.
But she played over 26 minutes against the Sparks on Saturday — and made the most out of her opportunity.
Iowa president Barbara Wilson hugs Caitlin Clark, left, and Kate Martin during a celebration of the Iowa women’s basketball team Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena in Iowa City, Iowa.
Julia Hansen/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK
Martin finished the game with 3 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 block.
All of Martin’s points came on a three-pointer which has Aces fans on their feet.
Martin also went viral for a monster block against a 6’7″ opponent.
When teammate Kelsey Plum was asked about Martin’s impact off the bench, she said, “Kate Money Martin…I love that kid!”
Clearly Caitlin Clark isn’t the only of Martin’s teammates who love the way she plays.
WNBA and Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark was challenged by teammate NaLyssa Smith. The challenge occurred in front of the entire team during the day’s practice.
The challenge began after an intense shooting practice, when NaLyssa proposed a duel to Caitlin, both players accepted the proposal with enthusiasm, turning the tense moment into a very funny show with laughter and celebrations for the rest of the team.
Caitlin Clark challenged by NaLyssa Smith
The friendly competition between Caitlin Clark and NaLsyssa Smith not only showed off their skills, but also their competitive spirit and ability to motivate each other and infect the team with positive energy.
Caitlin Clark, known for her scoring ability and accuracy on long shots, did not disappoint. With the eyes of the entire team on them, both Clark and Smith were able to hit impressive half-court shots, sparking a wave of applause and celebration among their teammates and the coaching staff.
The interaction between Caitlin and NaLyssa is a perfect example of how healthy competition and mutual support can take a team to the next level. The Indiana Fever are showing that their team spirit is as strong as their individual talent, promising a season full of success and exciting moments.
