Even after South Carolina players leave the program, Dawn Staley has their backs every step of the way. She proved this, rebuking a CBS reporter for their biased comment.

The Golden State Valkyries decided to waive many of their players, including Kate Martin. CBS Sports' Matt Lively reporting on the move made Staley take matters into her own hands on social media.

“Not cool to actually use other players names specifically Laeticia Amihere for your personal preface. I hope if you cover the Valkyries you can unbiasedly do so moving forward,” Staley wrote.

Staley stood up for Valkyries' forward Amihere, who used to be a South Carolina Gamecock under Staley's tutelage. She would not stand for the unnecessary comparison made by the CBS reporter.

Kate Martin was one of the cornerstones of the Valkyries' developmental project last year. The team finished with a record of 23-21, as Martin played in 42 games with 4 starts, averaging 6.2 points and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 32.3 % from the field.

It was a baffling decision for fans and analysts alike to see Martin get waived. Even Valkyries HC Natalie Nakashe revealed that it was not an easy decision to make, given how loved Martin was within the organization.

“A lot of heartache. Kate was our family member and someone we cared about deeply,” Nakase said. “And we still do care deeply about Kate. … It’s very hard because we are trying to construct the best team.”

These recent changes have shofted the public sentiment around the Valkyries in the recent past.

For starters, the Valkyries traded Flau'jae Johnson on the night of the WNBA Draft, but immediately switched players with the Seattle Storm, receiving No. 16 overall Marta Suarez instead.

However, the Valkyries made the confusing move of cutting Suarez just a few weeks later.

Apart from Martin and Suarez, the Valkyries have also waived Ashlon Jackson, Mariella, Fasoula, Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda, Miela Sowah, and Cate Reese.

According to Sports Illustrated's Brigid Kennedy, the Indiana Fever are now the favorites to land the 25-year-old, reuniting her with her college teammate, Caitlin Clark.

As Martin attempts to earn a spot back on a WNBA roster, she will also aim to return to full health. Recent developments suggest she is trending in the right direction.

Kate Martin Shows Positive Signs During Recovery

Before the former Iowa star was waived, it was reported that she suffered a groin injury. However, the Valkyries had also announced that she was progressing well during rehab.

If no team claims Martin within 48 hours, she will enter free agency.

Free agency offers Martin a fresh start after a disappointing preseason. Martin's skill set makes her a viable candidate for a roster spot elsewhere.

Only in her third year in the pros, a team such as Indiana could take a chance on her in hopes of further unlocking her potential at the WNBA level.

So, do you think Kate Martin will reach her potential this upcoming season? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Joy Bassy

Edited by

Surjo Ray