There to Support Her Friend, Iowa's Kate Martin Gets Drafted

Monday night in New York City Kate Martin attended the 2024 WNBA Draft. She sat alongside teammates Gabby Marshall and Jada Gyamfi and several assistant coaches from the Hawkeyes. They were all there to support their friend and teammate Caitlin Clark. But another Iowa name would also be read last night.

Clark, as expected, didn't have to wait long to hear her name called. The Iowa phenom was selected 1st overall by the Indiana Fever. The 1,000 fans inside the Brooklyn Academy of Music went crazy. Many were wearing Iowa #22 jerseys. Soon, they'll be able to buy a new Clark jersey. HERE is where you can watch Caitlin and the Indiana Fever play on national TV this year!

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As great as it was to see Caitlin go #1 overall, that moment was almost a foregone conclusion. Many wondered if any other Hawkeyes off a team that just made its second straight trip to the Final Four and National Championship game would be drafted. They would have to wait until the second round for the surprise to happen.

The Associated Press reports that Martin was drafted 18th overall by the defending WNBA Champion Las Vegas Aces. In an interview with ESPN, Martin said " I was here to support Caitlin, but I was hoping to hear my name called. All I wanted was an opportunity and I got it. I’m really excited." Needless to say, Caitlin Clark was thrilled her teammate heard her name called!

Martin was known as the glue of the Iowa women's basketball program. She did whatever the team needed to win. The AP reports that this marks the first time since 1998 that two Iowa Hawkeye players were selected in the same WNBA draft. Martin, like many WNBA picks, will have to fight to make a talented Aces roster, but I have a feeling Las Vegas could use a little 'glue'.

Another historic night for Iowa women's basketball. We can't wait to watch these two best friends at the next level!