Kate Martin Selected by Golden State in 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft
My Expansion Draft Predictions vs. Reality
The 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft has come and gone, and I can confidently say one thing: I was way off with my picks! Here’s how my predictions stacked up against the actual selections made by the Golden State Valkyries.
My Predictions
Dream: Haley Jones
Sky: Diamond DeShields or Kaela Davis
Sun: Olivia Nelson-Ododa
Fever: Katie Lou Samuelson
Liberty: Kayla Thornton
Mystics: Karlie Samuelson
Wings: Maddy Siegrist
Aces: Kiah Stokes or Kate Martin
Sparks: Zia Cooke
Lynx: Alissa Pili
Mercury: Celeste Taylor
Storm: Nika Mühl
What Actually Happened
Dream: Iliana Rupert
Sky: Maria Conde
Sun: Veronica Burton
Fever: Temi Fagbenle
Liberty: Kayla Thornton
Mystics: Julie Vanloo
Wings: Carla Leite
Aces: Kate Martin
Sparks: Stephanie Talbot
Lynx: Cecilia Zandalasini
Mercury: Monique Billings
Storm: No selection
Las Vegas Aces Statement on Kate Martin's Selection
The Las Vegas Aces issued the following heartfelt statement after guard Kate Martin was selected by the Golden State Valkyries in the Expansion Draft:
"The Aces organization first and foremost would like to thank Kate Martin for all of her hard work and dedication to the team this past year. We are proud of Kate and the impact she has made as a member of the Aces team. Although we are sad to see her leave, being selected by Golden State shows the value Kate possesses in this league, and we all wish her nothing but the best as she continues her career with the Valkyries. As with anyone who has been a member of this historic franchise, once an Ace, always an Ace, and Kate will always be a member of the Las Vegas Aces family."
Martin, who joined the Aces after her collegiate career at Iowa, made an impact during her rookie season. Known for her versatility and corner three, she became an integral part of the team’s culture.
Golden State’s Vision
The Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s 13th franchise, selected 11 players in the expansion draft, including names like Kate Martin, Kayla Thornton, Julie Vanloo , and Temi Fagbenle. Golden State General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin highlighted the team’s focus on building a versatile and deep roster.
"We’re excited to officially begin building the Golden State Valkyries," said Nyanin. "Our goal was to construct a roster that embodies leadership, defense, and scoring ability."
The Valkyries’ global approach ensures they’ll be competitive from the outset. Their inaugural game is scheduled for May 16, 2025, against the Los Angeles Sparks.
The Expansion Draft and Its Impact
The 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft gave Golden State the opportunity to select one unprotected player from each of the 12 existing WNBA teams. This process not only allows rising players like Martin to carve out new opportunities but also gives expansion teams like the Valkyries a chance to establish a strong foundation in the league.
What’s Next for the Aces?
While Martin’s departure creates a gap in the Aces' roster, Las Vegas remains committed to their championship standards. With free agency and the 2025 WNBA Draft on the horizon, the team is poised to retool and continue their pursuit of excellence.
Looking ahead, all teams will enter into the WNBA’s free agency period as defined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement:
Jan. 11: Teams can begin sending qualifying offers and “Core” player designations.
Jan. 20: Deadline for making those offers and designations.
Jan. 21: Teams may begin negotiating with players.
Feb. 1: Contracts and offer sheets may officially be signed.
The Takeaway
For Aces fans, Martin’s time in Las Vegas may have been brief, but her contributions left a lasting impression. Her transition to Golden State is a testament to the strength of the Aces’ player development and her undeniable talent.
As for my predictions? I’m happy to have nailed a couple, but it’s exciting to see how the Valkyries are building their roster. What do you think of their selections?
Share your thoughts in the comments or on social media I’d love to hear your take!
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