Kate Martin signs standard WNBA contract with Los Angeles Sparks

Scout Springgate, Hawkeyes WireMon, Jul 6, 2026·2 min read

After beginning the 2026 campaign on a player development deal, Kate Martin signed a standard WNBA contract with the Los Angeles Sparks on Monday morning, keeping the former Hawkeye in the City of Angels for the remainder of the season.

"Kate has made a meaningful impact on our group both on and off the court," Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley said. "She brings versatility on both ends of the floor, competes at a high level, and consistently puts the team first. We’re excited to see her continue to grow."

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Martin joined the Sparks on a player development contract on May 10, playing 10 of the 12 possible games under the terms of her contract. However, she established herself as a valuable contributor both on and off the court, earning her a standard contract once again.

In those 10 games this season, the former No. 18 overall draft pick averaged 2.6 points per game on 43.5% field goal shooting and 37.5% 3-point shooting in 7.7 minutes per night. WNBA developmental contracts allow teams to sign up to two players with three or fewer years of service to practice squads, in which players earn a $750 weekly stipend, receive benefits, and can be activated for up to 12 games per season.

In corresponding moves to Martin's contract conversion, the Sparks waived guard Ta'Niya Latson, who was selected No. 20 overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft out of South Carolina, and Los Angeles signed Alissa Pili to a player development contract.

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Martin and the Sparks host the Seattle Storm tonight from Crypto.com Arena at 9 p.m. CT, with the game being broadcast on the USA Network.

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This article originally appeared on Hawkeyes Wire: Kate Martin signs standard WNBA contract with Los Angeles Sparks