Fans React to Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin’s First Meeting as Opponent
The two will be forever linked due to their time together in Iowa City with the Hawkeyes. During that era, Clark broke all-time NCAA records, and Martin provided the necessary glue for Iowa’s two-straight Final Four runs.
Martin attended the 2024 WNBA draft in support of her close friend Clark while hoping to hear her name called by the end of the night. The WNBA’s now two-time defending champion Las Vegas Aces clearly recognized Martin’s winning impact, drafting her from the audience with the 18th overall pick.
Despite being drafted to the best roster in the league, Martin not only made the team but has been a regular contributor early in her rookie season. Martin has quickly carved out a role as the first off the bench for the Aces, which is not bad considering the incredible talent on the roster.
So here they were—two former teammates now on opposite sides. In one corner, you have Clark, the No. 1 overall pick on the worst team in the league. Opposite her is Martin, the Hawkeyes’ long-time supporting member who has cracked the rotation of the back-to-back WNBA champs.
The result was what you’d expect, the Aces taking care of business, 99-80, over an Indiana Fever team playing their third road contest in four days. In addition to Las Vegas stars A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young being their usual great selves, Martin came up huge off the bench in the win. Martin contributed 12 points and seven rebounds in a season-high 22 minutes played.
It was the first matchup for these Iowa teammates turned foes. Here are the top social media reactions from the night:
WNBAfanatic: “Seeing Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin on the court together, but on opposite sides, is so surreal. Both are shining in their own ways! “WNBA Hawkeyes”
IowaPride: “From Iowa City to the big stage, Clark and Martin are making us proud. What a journey for these two .
VegasAcesFan: “Kate Martin is proving why she belongs on the best team in the league. Incredible performance tonight.
FeverFaithful: “Tough loss for the Fever, but watching Caitlin Clark play is always a treat. Can’t wait to see her continue to grow in the WNBA. “Indiana Fever”
SportsCenter: “Former Iowa teammates Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin faced off for the first time in the WNBA tonight. Both had standout performances! “SportsCenter”
DraftQueen: “Kate Martin going from undrafted to a key player for the Aces is such an inspiring story. She was on fire tonight.
The matchup between Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin was a highly anticipated event for fans of both players. Their history together at Iowa, combined with their current trajectories in the WNBA, created a unique narrative that captivated audiences. Clark, despite being on a struggling Indiana Fever team, continues to show why she was the No. 1 overall pick. Meanwhile, Martin’s rise from an 18th overall pick to a significant contributor for the dominant Las Vegas Aces is a testament to her hard work and talent.
Fans are excited to see how both players will continue to develop and impact the league. This first meeting as opponents is just the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling rivalry and a reminder of the strong bond they share from their college days.