A whole lot of people were talking about the Las Vegas Aces on Saturday for things happening off the court – and rightfully so, as the two-time defending champs find themselves reportedly under investigation again by the WNBA.
But we should talk about the Aces’ impressive 89-82 win over the Los Angeles Sparks too.
Specifically, this play that Kate Martin made, in which the rookie guard from Iowa leapt into the air and swatted away a shot from 6-foot-7 Li Yueru with authority. It was a block that drew a perfect reaction from Martin’s Las Vegas teammate, Kelsey Plum, that was captured by photographers and videographers alike.
The Glue Rejection 🖐️@kate_martin22 // #ALLINLV pic.twitter.com/X1HSuSEmti
— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) May 18, 2024
One more look at the reaction here, courtesy of Getty’s Ethan Miller:
Remember, Martin wasn’t even expecting to get drafted when the Aces selected her with the 18th overall pick in the second round. She just showed up that day in New York City to cheer on her Iowa teammate, Caitlin Clark. In league where making a roster is incredibly difficult – especially as a rookie, and as second round draft pick – Martin’s journey so far has been nothing short of impressive and inspiring (and sometimes hilarious, when A’ja Wilson makes her wear South Carolina gear).
The Aces’ win over the Sparks on Saturday marked Martin’s WNBA debut, and the Edwardsville, Illinois native finished with three points, three assists, five rebounds, and that one emphatic block in 26 minutes off the bench
Kelsey Plum on Kate Martin: "Kate Money Martin…I love that kid!" pic.twitter.com/ergIrO2v9w
— Heavens! (@HeavensFX) May 18, 2024
