Why the Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin Connection Still Hits Different
Honestly, if you followed the Iowa Hawkeyes' rise over the last few years, you already know. It wasn't just about the logo threes or the sold-out arenas. It was the vibe. Specifically, the vibe between Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin. Even now, in early 2026, as both women have established themselves as legitimate WNBA entities, fans are still tracking their every interaction like it's a prestige TV drama.
Why? Because it feels real.
In a world of manufactured sports rivalries and "brand-first" personalities, the bond between these two is refreshingly blunt. They troll each other. They defend each other. They’ve gone from being college roommates to WNBA "enemies" on the court, yet they still seem like they’re one FaceTime call away from a three-hour vent session.
The Hawkeye Foundation: Where It All Started
Before they were household names, they were just two kids in Iowa City trying to figure it out. Kate Martin was the "Glue" with a capital G. She was the one who could actually get through to Caitlin when the competitive fire was burning a little too hot.
During an interview with Sue Bird’s Bird’s Eye View podcast last summer, Martin admitted her first impression of Clark was basically: "Who is this girl who thinks she's going to rule the world?" Then, Clark actually did it.
Martin didn't just stand back and watch; she became the captain who stabilized the ship while Clark provided the fireworks. They led Iowa to back-to-back National Championship games in 2023 and 2024. That kind of shared trauma—and triumph—doesn't just go away because you put on different jerseys.
The WNBA Era: From Teammates to "The Rivalry"
When the 2024 WNBA Draft rolled around, everyone knew Clark was going No. 1 to the Indiana Fever. But the real tear-jerker was Kate Martin. She wasn't even an official invitee; she was just sitting in the stands to support her best friend. Then the Las Vegas Aces called her name at No. 18.
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Fast forward to 2025. Things got... interesting.
The 2025 season was a rollercoaster for both. For Caitlin Clark, it was a year of massive highs and some pretty brutal physical setbacks. She was averaging 16.5 points and 8.8 assists through 13 games before a groin injury in mid-July basically ended her season. It was the first time she’s ever really been sidelined.
Meanwhile, Kate Martin found herself in a totally new environment. After a solid rookie year with the Aces, she was picked up by the Golden State Valkyries in the expansion draft. Suddenly, "The Glue" was in the Bay Area, playing a pivotal role for a brand-new franchise.
The "Money Martin" Stat Nobody Expected
Here is the wild part: through the 2025 season, Caitlin Clark was 0-6 against Kate Martin in the WNBA.
Think about that. The most famous basketball player on the planet couldn't catch a break against her former captain. Every time the Fever played the Aces (and later the Valkyries), Martin walked away with the W. You just know Kate reminds her of that every single day.
"She's a phenomenal person. She's a phenomenal player and I'm going to support her through everything," Martin told reporters during the 2025 season.
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But don't let the sweetness fool you. These two are competitive as hell. In June 2025, during a pre-game warmup between the Fever and Valkyries, Clark was spotted trying to playfully swat the ball out of Martin’s hands while she was shooting a three. Just pure, unadulterated "little sibling" energy.
The Off-Season and the Unrivaled Factor
Right now, in January 2026, the conversation has shifted to the Unrivaled 3x3 league.
Kate Martin is currently balling out for Breeze BC alongside superstars like Paige Bueckers and Cameron Brink. She’s been training with Clark’s signature "Oasis" basketball—a blue-and-white Wilson ball that Clark designed herself. Even when they aren't together, they're literally connected by the equipment.
There was massive speculation about whether Clark would join the league. She reportedly turned down a $1 million offer for the inaugural season to focus on her health and USA Basketball. But Kate hasn't stopped the recruiting pitch.
What People Get Wrong About Their Dynamic
There’s this weird narrative online that one "overshadows" the other. Honestly, that’s garbage.
- Kate Martin has carved out a niche as one of the most beloved players in the league because of her work ethic and defensive grit. She’s not "Caitlin’s friend" anymore; she’s a Valkyries staple who averages 6.2 points and nearly 3 rebounds off the bench with high-level efficiency.
- Caitlin Clark is, well, Caitlin Clark. She’s the engine of the WNBA’s growth, even when she's injured.
Their friendship works because it’s built on mutual respect, not just shared history. When Kate pulled Caitlin’s trading card in a viral TikTok video a few months back, her reaction was pure shock and joy. She didn't roll her eyes; she celebrated it.
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What’s Next for the Duo?
As we head deeper into 2026, all eyes are on Clark’s recovery. She’s been rehabbing that groin injury and preparing for the upcoming season, where the Fever are desperate to get back to the playoffs.
Kate, meanwhile, is solidifying her spot as a fan favorite in the Bay. The Valkyries fans have fully embraced her, often referring to her as the "6th Man" because of the energy she brings to Chase Center.
Key Takeaways for Fans
- Watch the Unrivaled Highlights: Even if Clark isn't playing, her influence is all over the league. Keep an eye on Martin’s performance with Breeze BC; her 3x3 game is actually better suited for her skillset than most people realize.
- Follow the Trolling: If you want the "real" updates, check their Instagram stories after Fever vs. Valkyries games. That’s where the actual gold is found.
- Appreciate the Nuance: Stop comparing their stats. They play different roles. Martin is a defensive specialist and locker room leader; Clark is a generational offensive talent. Both are necessary for their teams to win.
The 2026 WNBA season kicks off soon, and if the last two years have taught us anything, it’s that the Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin saga is far from over. Whether they're swapping jerseys at mid-court or roasting each other's viral dance videos on TikTok, they remain the heartbeat of the "New WNBA."
Keep your notifications on for the next time the Fever travel to San Francisco. It’s not just a game; it’s a reunion.
Actionable Next Steps:
Keep a close watch on the Unrivaled 3x3 standings this month to see how Martin's defensive stats correlate with Breeze BC's success. Additionally, monitor the Indiana Fever's injury reports as training camp approaches in the spring to confirm Clark's return to full-contact practice.