WNBA Debuts: Valkyries’ Martin Struggles While Bueckers Impresses for Wings

San Francisco, CA — The Golden State Valkyries made headlines with a surprising starting lineup for their WNBA debut against the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday night. Kate Martin, a recent addition from the expansion draft, was named a starter despite her lackluster preseason performance.

The 24-year-old guard had been drafted in the second round of the 2024 draft after leaving Iowa, where she had a prominent college career. During the preseason, it seemed likely she would start from the bench, having missed games and receiving limited playing time leading up to the opener against the Sparks.

However, Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase surprised fans by putting Martin in the starting five alongside Tiffany Hayes, Temi Fagbenie, Kayla Thornton, and Veronica Burton. Despite the high hopes for the guard, Martin struggled during the game, finishing with just two points and one assist in 12 minutes of play in a 84-67 loss.

Social media quickly buzzed with comments from fans questioning Martin’s performance. One fan tweeted, “Kate Martin gonna have to realize she’s not on the Aces anymore,” while another expressed disappointment, stating, “Can someone tell me why Kate Martin was a starter?” The fans were quick to note that Martin appeared to be stagnant on offense, often just waiting for the ball.

The game also marked a historic attendance record for the franchise, as 18,064 fans showed up to watch the Valkyries in action, the highest in any team’s debut game. Prominent figures, including Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, were in attendance, celebrating the milestone despite the loss.

“I’ve always been the only girl walking into the NBA gym and all guys — it’s the same,” Nakase reflected on the significance of the moment. “The reason I’m here is because of my dad. I was really lucky to have a parent that not only loved me unconditionally but pushed me beyond my limits.”

Following the game, the Valkyries will face the Washington Mystics next before retrying against the Sparks on May 23.