Following the 2023-24 season, the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team saw two of their top players move to the WNBA. Caitlin Clark was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Indiana Fever, while Kate Martin was picked 18th in the second round by the Las Vegas Aces.
Impressive Starts and Enduring Friendship
At the beginning of the 2024 season, both stars have made remarkable impressions on their new WNBA teams. Their enduring friendship has also played a pivotal role in keeping them closely connected throughout this period. Despite playing for different teams, their bond remains strong.
Before the Fever’s game against the Seattle Storm on Thursday night, Clark shared her thoughts about Martin’s start in the WNBA during a pregame interview. She openly expressed her feelings about her former teammate, saying, “I’m just really happy for her. She’s been doing great and, honestly, I still wish she was my teammate.”
Four Years Together at Iowa
Clark and Martin spent four years together at Iowa, leading the Hawkeyes to two consecutive NCAAW National Championships, although they were defeated in both title games. Their time together was marked by significant achievements and a deep camaraderie that extended beyond the court.
Wake up babe your daily dose of cait praising Kate Martin vid just dropped pic.twitter.com/cZ5lxjRN9x
— sofia (@slowlyslide) June 28, 2024
WNBA Matchup
The two have already faced off once in the WNBA, with Martin and the Aces defeating Clark and the Fever by a final score of 99-80. Despite being on opposing teams now, their mutual respect and admiration for each other remain evident.
Looking Ahead
As Clark and Martin continue to navigate their rookie seasons in the WNBA, their friendship and shared history will undoubtedly continue to be a source of support and motivation. Both players have shown great promise in their early careers, and their ongoing connection highlights the importance of relationships formed through collegiate sports. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how both stars develop and contribute to their respective teams in the coming seasons.