Sparks Player Kelsey Plum Advocates for Kate Martin's Future with Team

Kate Martin, the former Iowa women's basketball standout, made her seventh appearance of the season on Sunday night while on a player development contract with the Los Angeles Sparks. Following the Sparks' 89-72 victory against the Portland Fire, teammate Kelsey Plum expressed her admiration for Martin and shared her desire to see the young player remain with the team for an extended period.

"Love Kate Martin. Kate Martin for president!" Plum exclaimed after the game. She emphasized Martin's positive influence on the court, stating, "You see her impact every time she goes in the game, her energy, she makes shots, she's super active, and we need more of Kate Martin."

Currently, Martin is on a development deal that permits her to compete in a limited number of games—up to 12—before the Sparks must decide whether to sign her to a standard WNBA contract or release her. In her seven outings so far, the 6-foot guard has averaged 3.3 points per game, showcasing an impressive shooting percentage of 50% overall and 41.7% from beyond the arc.

Her next opportunity to contribute could come on June 10, when the Sparks face off against the Seattle Storm at Climate Pledge Arena. Martin's energetic presence has already made a noticeable impact on her teammates and the team's dynamic this season.