Kate Martin Signs With Chicago Sky: Iowa Star Returns Closer to Home

Former Iowa Hawkeyes standout Kate Martin is heading back to the Midwest. The Chicago Sky announced Tuesday that they signed Martin to a developmental contract for the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season, bringing the Edwardsville, Illinois native within striking distance of Hawkeye Country.

Martin, who was waived by the Los Angeles Sparks on August 29, fills the roster spot left open after forward Maddy Westbeld signed with the Phoenix Mercury. The move reunites Martin with a fan base that watched her become one of the most beloved players in recent Iowa basketball history.

Iowa coach Jan Jensen reacts to Martin's homecoming

Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Jan Jensen did not hide her excitement about Martin's new chapter.

“Hawk Fans...how pumped are we that @kate_martin22 is now so close to Hawkeye Country?!🙌🏼😀 Let's Goooo, Kate!!!! We're so happy for you, Kate...love you!” Jensen wrote on X.

Martin played five seasons at Iowa, helping lead the Hawkeyes to back-to-back National Championship appearances alongside Caitlin Clark. She averaged 8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.9 assists during her collegiate career while shooting 35.5% from three-point range, peaking at 41.4% during the 2022-23 season.

New opportunity with the Sky

Martin's arrival in Chicago comes at a critical time for the Sky. Guard Skylar Diggins, who liked the Sky's announcement post, was officially shut down for the rest of the season on September 1 due to a knee injury. With the team lacking guard depth and perimeter shooting, Martin could see meaningful minutes down the stretch.

Former Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder, who coached Martin throughout her collegiate career, also reposted the announcement on Instagram. The official Iowa Hawkeyes page shared it as well.

Martin's WNBA journey so far

The road to Chicago has been anything but smooth for Martin. After a rookie year with the Las Vegas Aces, she was selected by the Golden State Valkyries in the 2025 expansion draft and appeared in 42 games. She was cut after the season and signed with the Sparks on May 10.

In Los Angeles, Martin made history by becoming the first player in franchise history to be upgraded from a developmental contract to the active roster on July 6.

“Kate has made a meaningful impact on our group both on and off the court,” said Sparks General Manager Raegan Pebley. “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.”

When will Kate Martin play for the Sky?

Martin will first be available for the Sky on September 17 against the Washington Mystics, following the nearly three-week break for the FIBA World Cup. She will wear jersey number 20.

Martin posted the announcement to her Instagram story with the caption “Home state!” She went 122-6 during her high school career at Edwardsville and never lost a home game.

What this means for Martin's WNBA future

This signing gives Martin another opportunity to prove she belongs at the WNBA level. With Chicago's backcourt depleted by injury, the former Hawkeye has a clear path to playing time and a chance to showcase the versatility that made her a fan favorite in Iowa City.

For Iowa fans, the move means Martin is now just a short drive away from Hawkeye Country. And for Martin, it's a fresh start with a team that appears ready to give her a real shot.