The Golden State Valkyries will begin their first ever training camp soon. Golden State -- the WNBA's 13th team -- will make its debut in the league this season. Now that the expansion and WNBA drafts are completed, the Valkyries can focus on their current roster and gearing up for the '25 campaign. The team may not have a superstar on the roster yet, but that may change during the upcoming season.
Kate Martin was selected by Golden State in the expansion draft. She was drafted by the Las Vegas Aces in 2024, but spent just one season with the team as she was not protected by Las Vegas ahead of the expansion draft.
The change may be the best thing for her career, though. Here is why Martin is poised for a breakout season with her new team.
Kate Martin could have big 2025 season with Valkyries
Valkyries head coach Natalie Nakase is quite familiar with Martin's game, as Nakase previously worked with the Aces before landing the Golden State head coaching job. The Valkyries new coach is likely going to lean on Martin as the offense tries to find its identity.
In Las Vegas, Martin was limited to just 11.5 minutes per outing. She ended up recording 2.6 points per game. With Golden State, though, Martin is unquestionably going to see a minutes increase. No, she may not emerge as an MVP candidate, but Martin is going to get a tremendous opportunity. It would not be surprising to see her take a massive step forward and possibly even earn some All-Star consideration.
Valkyries ready to make WNBA debut
The Valkyries have some talented players, but they probably will not compete at a high level for a few years. Expansion teams often require a couple of seasons before becoming true playoff threats. Could Golden State shock the WNBA world? Anything is possible, but it is rather unlikely.
With that said, players such as Kate Martin will be in a position to see drastic improvement. Expansion teams provide opportunities for players who simply need a chance to shine.
Martin and the Valkyries will play their first preseason game on May 6. Golden State will begin the regular season at home on May 16 in a matchup with the Los Angeles Sparks. With the season right around the corner, excitement is beginning to brew around the WNBA's new expansion franchise.