Sparks fans are fuming after controversial Kate Martin decision
The Los Angeles Sparks announced it waived fan favorite guard Kate Martin on Saturday. Waiving Martin cleared a roster spot for guard-forward Aaliyah Nye, whom the Sparks claimed off waivers after she was released by the Atlanta Dream.
What Did Sparks Fans Have to Say?
After the Sparks announced the news about Martin on social media, multiple fans expressed their disappointment and frustration with the organization.
This is the second time she has been cut by a WNBA team after getting waived by the Golden State Valkyries before the beginning of the season. Martin started on a developmental contract with the Sparks then signed a standard contract in July before ultimately getting waived again on Saturday.
“You guys lied to her and wasted her time,” one fan replied on X.
Other fans are still upset with the Sparks’ decision to trade five-time WNBA All-Star guard Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury earlier this month. And now waiving Martin has added to the fans’ frustrations.
“No reason to watch the sparks. First PlumDoG now Kate. Sorry sparks. 1 less viewer,” another fan replied on X.
Another issue fans had with the Sparks’ decision to waive Martin was that it seems the organization lacks a clear direction.
“At this point, I don’t understand what’s going on with the Los Angeles Sparks this season,” a third fan replied on X.
What’s Next for Martin?
Martin will now search for her next opportunity to earn a roster spot on a WNBA team. With less than a month remaining in the regular season, Martin has limited time to land a new deal before the end of the season.
Fortunately for Martin, she signed a multi-year deal to return to Unrivaled Basketball for her third season. She announced the news just hours before the Sparks announced its decision to waive her.
Playing in Unrivaled will give Martin an opportunity to showcase her talents while playing against some of the top players in the WNBA. The Unrivaled season is from January to March, and WNBA free agent signings typically open in April.