Kate Martin dropped 21 points off the bench in a near-upset over the New York Liberty. A breakout moment in her young WNBA career. But instead of the spotlight staying on her stellar play, controversy erupted over how her performance was framed by Valkyries broadcasters, who repeatedly linked her identity to former Iowa teammate Caitlin Clark.
Fans Slam Broadcast for Overshadowing Martin’s Moment
The tipping point came after a comment from the broadcast—shared widely on social media—that framed Martin’s rise through the lens of Clark’s shadow. One now-viral quote from X stated:
“Everybody knows Kate Martin because she played with Caitlin Clark at Iowa. But people forget some of the games that Caitlin didn’t have it, especially in the tournament which is where Kate really made her name.”
That final sentence set off a firestorm. Critics quickly pointed out that Martin never outscored Clark in any NCAA game during their time at Iowa. Even in her most efficient games, Clark’s numbers were often miles ahead. Yet for many fans, the issue wasn’t stats, it was the constant comparison.
Martin has already carved out her own identity in the WNBA. Since being drafted by the Golden State Valkyries, she’s become a fan favorite. Her jersey ranks 4th in WNBA sales, and she helped spark a run of eight straight sellouts at Chase Center.
Still, during her best game yet—a 21-point performance against the Liberty — Martin’s name remained tethered to Clark’s, and the commentary sparked online backlash.
A Larger Conversation About WNBA Broadcast Standards
Critics say the broadcast tone reflects a broader problem: commentary that lacks nuance and accuracy, especially in the rapidly growing WNBA media landscape. One fan wrote, “Is it too much to ask for professional commentators who actually know the players?”
Others called for broadcast upgrades in the upcoming CBA negotiations, though media staffing isn’t directly part of those talks. Still, recent history shows teams do respond to fan pressure. Both Sheryl Swoopes and Cindy Brunson were let go from WNBA coverage in 2025 following controversies related to their treatment of Clark on-air.
The Valkyries’ announcer at the center of the storm, Jacob Tobey, is no amateur—he also works Spurs broadcasts and is joined by color analyst Morgan Ragan. But that hasn’t stopped fans from questioning the tone and accuracy of the commentary team, especially when Clark is involved.
Respect for Martin, Accountability for Coverage
It’s clear fans aren’t mad at Kate Martin; they’re frustrated that she’s still being viewed through the Clark lens, despite proving her worth at the pro level.
From nailing clutch threes to drawing massive crowds, Martin has become more than just a role player, but a rising star. And even Caitlin Clark herself has praised her, calling Martin “one of the best teammates I’ve ever had.”
As the WNBA grows, so too will expectations for broadcast quality. For now, fans just want the facts to be right. And for standout players like Kate Martin to get their moment, without unnecessary comparisons.
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