WNBA talent commits to Spirit

The Bendigo Spirit announced on Wednesday that the US guard  Kate Martin has committed to the club for the rest of the WNBL27 Season, pending League approval.

The 26-year-old brings WNBA experience and international star power to Bendigo, joining as a rostered replacement player for Abbey Wehrung, who will miss the rest of the season after announcing she is expecting her first child.

Martin arrives after three seasons in the WNBA. She was most recently with the Chicago Sky, having previously played for the Golden State Valkyries, Los Angeles Sparks and Las Vegas Aces.

“I’m really excited to be joining the Bendigo Spirit and becoming part of such a successful program,” Martin said.

“I’ve heard great things about the WNBL and the standard of basketball in Australia, so I’m looking forward to challenging myself in a new environment.

“Bendigo has a really talented group and a strong team culture, and I’m excited to get to work, meet my teammates and hopefully contribute to another successful season.”

The Aces selected Martin with the 18th overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. She spent her rookie season in Las Vegas before joining Golden State for the franchise’s inaugural campaign in 2025.

The 183cm guard is also well known for her successful college career at the University of Iowa, where she played alongside global superstar Caitlin Clark.

A key member of the Hawkeyes’ starting line-up, Martin helped Iowa reach back-to-back NCAA Championship games in 2023 and 2024, earning a reputation as a respected leader and a versatile, hard-working player.

She has also competed in Unrivaled, the high-profile American three-on-three league featuring some of the biggest names in women’s basketball.

Bendigo Spirit general manager Dan Jackson said Martin would be an exciting addition to the roster.

“Kate is a fantastic signing for our club and brings a wealth of experience from some of the best basketball environments in the world,” Jackson said.

“She’s a tough competitor, a strong defender and a very capable outside shooter, but what really stands out is her basketball IQ, leadership and willingness to do whatever the team needs.

“She’s played alongside some of the biggest names in the game and has built a reputation as an outstanding teammate, which is something we really value here at Bendigo.

“While we’re obviously disappointed not to have Abbey on court for the remainder of the season, we’re absolutely thrilled for her and Daniel, and we’re excited about what Kate will bring to our group.”

Martin will arrive in Australia this Friday, November 13.