WNBA’s Kate Martin Analyzes the Playing Styles of the Las Vegas Aces and Valkyries

Kate Martin has gained popularity among WNBA fans for various reasons, particularly her dynamic fashion style.

“Before entering the league, I thought dressing up for every occasion was necessary, which added more pressure that actually stressed me out more than the basketball games,” Martin, 25, shared exclusively with Us Weekly this month.

“However, I realized that it’s really up to you how you want to approach it. The players from the [Las Vegas] Aces definitely have great style,” she added. “I observed many players last year showcasing amazing outfits.”

Since being drafted as the No. 18 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Martin has established herself significantly. The rising star, a close friend of Caitlin Clark, joined the Las Vegas Aces last year and immediately started captivating fans both on and off the court.

In December 2024, Martin was selected by the Golden State Valkyries during the WNBA Expansion Draft. (The new team expanded its inaugural lineup by drafting unprotected players from the existing WNBA teams and signing several athletes from international rosters.)

While some players embrace the pregame dressing experience — including her former Aces teammate A’ja Wilson and current Valkyries teammate Tiffany Hayes — Martin was excited to learn that not everyone emphasizes their game day outfits.

In San Francisco, for instance, some of Martin’s teammates “kind of just do whatever” with their pregame tunnel attire. “I think that’s what makes it enjoyable,” Martin told Us.

While the Aces showcased stylish looks during her tenure, Martin credits Hayes with inspiring her creativity and enjoyment concerning clothing. Hayes launched her fashion line, Seyah Renara, in 2024.

Hayes has “styled me a few times” with pieces from her line, Martin shared, expressing that she finds it “really cool” that Hayes ventured into the fashion realm.

“She’s not merely a basketball player; she’s also an entrepreneur with fantastic style,” Martin added. “[Washington Mystics player] Alysha Clark’s outfits this year have also been amazing.”

Martin’s ever-evolving fashion sense is set to influence WNBA games — and fans can now replicate her looks. She, along with Hayes and teammate Monique Billings, have collaborated with the online retail platform Rakuten to allow fans to purchase items from their tunnel outfits, bringing the WNBA experience into fans’ homes.

Martin values fostering community, stating that the Valkyries’ fans are “incredible.” The team has sold out every home game at the Chase Center (nicknamed Ballhalla) this season and recognizes the significance of the dedicated 18,000+ fans in attendance.

“It’s been amazing to witness the growth of our fan base from the start of the season to now,” Martin commented. “They have shown unwavering support throughout, making every game enjoyable, regardless of the outcome. We sincerely appreciate them.”

She added, “The atmosphere in Ballhalla is truly unmatched. It’s been a delight to play in front of such enthusiastic fans. I don’t think many places in the W experience this, so we feel incredibly fortunate to perform for a packed crowd every night.”