In a surprising move, the Golden State Valkyries have cut Kate Martin, a fan favorite and key player, as they finalize their roster for the 2026 WNBA season. Martin, who was selected in the 2024 expansion draft from Las Vegas, had a solid previous season, averaging 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds per game while appearing in nearly every game. Her popularity soared during her college career at the University of Iowa, where she helped lead the Hawkeyes to back-to-back Final Four appearances in 2023 and 2024 alongside Caitlin Clark. Despite her impressive performance in the preseason and being a top seller in merchandise, the Valkyries opted to keep forward Laeticia Amihere instead, likely influenced by the unexpected absence of center Iliana Rupert due to pregnancy. The team also added All-Star wing Gabby Williams, which further complicated Martin's chances of making the final roster. As Martin now hits waivers, she could be claimed by any of the other 14 WNBA teams before the Valkyries' season opener against the Seattle Storm on Friday at 7 p.m.