One look at their rotation on May 18, 2024 could confirm that, despite being just days removed from attaching championship rings to their fingers, the Las Vegas Aces were noticeably shorthanded. For Kate Martin — one of just second rounders to earn a roster spot from Day One — it merely represented the perfect time for arrival. Whittled to just an eight-player rotation, Las Vegas discovered this night’s needed depth through Martin’s far-reaching contributions. An ultimate connector, Martin offered plays of every kind, from heads-up passes and rebounds through relentless hustle to a 3-pointer that helped encourage a game-altering 15-0 run. The rookie’s most-discussed sequence arrived in the final quarter when Martin, 6-foot, took flight to send a shot from 6-foot-7 Li Yieru into the stands, drawing a supportive roar from the crowd thereafter. Immediately inscribed into the Aces’ record books, hearts, and highlight reels through versatility, Martin’s WNBA introduction concluded with three points, five rebounds, three assists, one block, one 3-pointer, and a +9 plus-minus in 26 minutes. Earning endorsements from her coaches soon after, the former Hawkeye’s performance helped ensure the defending champions’ survival against the spirited Los Angeles Sparks. · May 18, 2024