The Golden State Valkyries made their mark in the 2024 WNBA Expansion Draft, constructing a roster filled with experienced talent and potential stars. At the center of their plans is second-year guard Kate Martin, a player ready to make the leap from a promising rookie to a franchise cornerstone.
Drafted in the second round of the 2024 WNBA Draft, Martin showed glimpses of her potential in her debut season. While she played a limited role in her rookie year, the Valkyries are betting big on her ability to grow into a leader both on and off the court.
“This league is all about opportunity, and you just need one shot,” Martin said after the draft. “I’m very thankful for the Aces and everything I got to learn there, but I’m really excited for this new beginning and to build something from the ground up here with the Valkyries.”
Kate Martin: A Foundation to Build Around
Known for her ability to space the floor with her corner three-point shooting and her toughness on defense, Martin possesses the tools to thrive in a more prominent role. Her competitiveness and knack for hitting clutch shots have already made her a fan favorite, and the Valkyries see her as a player who can set the tone for the team’s culture.
“Kate Martin brings floor-spacing ability and thrives on corner threes,” said one analyst. “Her toughness defensively and incredible competitiveness make her a player you can build around.”
Martin herself is ready for the challenge. “My ceiling is very high, and I have a lot of room to grow,” she said. “I’m always working on my shot, being quicker, and improving my defense.”
A Balanced and Versatile Roster
The Valkyries didn’t stop with Martin. Their expansion draft strategy reflected a commitment to building a balanced team with a mix of veterans, international talent, and rising stars. Key selections included:
• Iliana Rupert: A French international with Olympic experience and a WNBA championship under her belt. Rupert’s ability to stretch the floor as a big makes her a perfect fit for the Valkyries’ style of play.
• Veronica Burton: One of the league’s top players in scoring off drives last season, Burton also brings elite defensive skills and a relentless work ethic.
• Temi Fagbenle: Known for her high energy and fast-paced play, Fagbenle is expected to bring a strong presence to the frontcourt.
• Monique Billings: A versatile defender who adds toughness and a glue-player mentality to the roster. Billings’ ability to guard multiple positions will be crucial for the team’s defensive identity.
• Julie Vanloo: The Belgian guard brings valuable international experience and a reputation for performing well under pressure.
The Vision for the Valkyries
Head coach Natalie “Coach Nass” Nakase will lead this team into its inaugural season, shaping a roster filled with potential. Players like Martin and Rupert provide a strong foundation, while others like Burton and Fagbenle offer flexibility and room for growth.
“Coach Nass is someone you’ll want to run through a brick wall for,” Martin said. “She’s honest but matches that with love and support.”
The Valkyries also hold the fifth overall pick in the upcoming 2025 WNBA Draft, giving them another opportunity to add young talent to their roster. Combined with the pieces acquired in the expansion draft, the team is poised to make an immediate impact.
A New Beginning
The Golden State Valkyries represent more than just a new team—they’re a fresh start for players like Kate Martin, who are ready to take their careers to the next level. For Martin, this is the chance to prove she can lead a franchise. For the Valkyries, it’s the beginning of what they hope will be a long and successful journey in the WNBA.
“My goal is to grow with this team and help us build something special,” Martin said. “This is just the start, and I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got.”
With Martin as the focal point of their plans, the Valkyries aren’t just joining the league—they’re creating a foundation for the future. And the league is watching to see how far this new team can go.
Here is the list of players drafted by the Golden State Valkyries in the WNBA Expansion Draft:
1. Iliana Rupert – From Atlanta Dream
2. Maria Conde – From Chicago Sky
3. Veronica Burton – From Connecticut Sun
4. Carla Leite – From Dallas Wings
5. Temi Fagbenle – From Indiana Fever
6. Kate Martin – From Las Vegas Aces
7. Stephanie Talbot – From Los Angeles Sparks
8. Cecilia Zandalasini – From Minnesota Lynx
9. Kayla Thornton – From New York Liberty
10. Monique Billings – From Phoenix Mercury
11. Julie Vanloo – From Washington Mystics
12. No Player Selected – From Seattle Storm
