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Kate Martin · Enough of a fan favorite to draw a rousing ovation from even the Los Angeles Sparks’ opposing crowd following her first bucket, Kate Martin, in the game’s aftermath, was described as “universal” by her head coach. With contributions from around the hardwood during her first-ever WNBA start, Martin’s box score and shot chart could reasonably be labeled the same way. Accurate and aggressive from the game’s outset, the versatile second-rounder puts her off-ball IQ on exhibit, using a pindown to free herself for first a handoff, and then a quick-rise triple, putting her in double-figure scoring within the opening half. The milestone start highlighted both Martin’s liking to corner and above-the-break 3-pointers, and a recognizable chemistry with her Most Valuable Player-winning teammate. The Las Vegas Aces’ red-hot start would ultimately go in defeat on June 9, 2024, but Martin’s play, even so, remained a celebrated topic. In showcasing varying parts of her game throughout, Martin provided 13 points (on five-of-seven shooting), four rebounds, three assists, and three 3-pointers in 32 minutes. · State of Mint