Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark and Golden State Valkyries guard Kate Martin share a bond so close that their names have become nearly inseparable in basketball circles.
The duo first forged their friendship at Iowa, where their on-court chemistry propelled the Hawkeyes to back-to-back NCAA Tournament championship game appearances and three consecutive Big Ten titles. Their collegiate success solidified a connection that extended far beyond the court.
However, their rookie seasons in the WNBA presented starkly different narratives. Clark dazzled the league, earning Rookie of the Year honors, while Martin struggled for playing time with the Las Vegas Aces, averaging just 11.5 minutes per game. Despite their differing trajectories, their friendship remained unwavering, with shared experiences as newcomers to professional basketball further deepening their camaraderie.
As with any close relationship, playful banter is part of the dynamic. In an interview with Time Magazine’s Sean Gregory, Clark revealed her penchant for teasing Martin. During a visit to Clark’s apartment in Indianapolis, she humorously serenaded Martin with Luke Combs songs on her karaoke machine—a performance Martin described as decidedly off-key.
Now with the Valkyries after being selected in the expansion draft, Martin has a fresh start in Golden State alongside talents like Temi Fagbenle and Cecilia Zandalasini. Perhaps, in time, she’ll invite Clark over for her own playful revenge, proving that their friendship thrives no matter the distance.
