Kate Martin Finds New WNBA Home in Los Angeles

Just four days after getting the news that she had been cut from her WNBA team, former Hawkeye Kate Martin has a new home.

Kate Martin Signs Developmental Contract

ESPN reports that former Iowa star Kate Martin has found a new home. Martin was cut by Golden State last Thursday. She played for the Valkyries last season after being selected by the team in last year's expansion draft. But fans knew Martin would land somewhere in the league, and that place is with the Los Angeles Sparks. ESPN reports that the Sparks signed Martin to a development roster spot.

Martin Calls Being Cut 'Brutal'

Martin met with reporters prior to the Sparks' home opener against the Las Vegas Aces on Saturday, and said that getting cut by Golden State was "brutal". ESPN reports that Martin fought back tears and stated, "It wasn't an easy process, and now I feel like I can relate to a lot more people on a level I never wanted to be able to relate on. But it's going to help me as a leader and a person going forward." Martin said that she loved Golden State and her teammates.

Martin Joins a Former Aces Teammate

ESPN reports that Martin chose Los Angeles because they made her feel wanted. She will also be able to play with one of her former teammates from her days in Las Vegas, point guard Kelsey Plum. Plum is in her second year with the Sparks, and ESPN reports that Martin reached out to her prior to her landing in Los Angeles.

Martin's development contract is a bit like the NBA's two-way contract. Martin will be eligible to suit up and play in up to 12 games for L.A.