In Las Vegas on Saturday night, the Iowa women’s basketball contingent had a memorable evening, but this time, Caitlin Clark wasn’t the star. Instead, Kate Martin shone brightly. The Aces rookie contributed 12 points and seven rebounds, playing a game-high 22 minutes off the bench, and helped lead the Aces to a 99-80 victory over Clark’s Indiana Fever. With Iowa coaches Jan Jensen, Lisa Bluder, and Jenni Fitzgerald, along with their families, watching courtside, Martin outperformed in a game featuring her, Clark, and former Iowa star and Aces reserve Megan Gustafson. Clark finished with eight points, seven assists, and five rebounds, along with six turnovers, over 29 minutes, during a tough scheduling stretch for the Fever. She hit two deep three-pointers for her only field goals. Gustafson grabbed one rebound in eight minutes, attempting one three-pointer.
Despite the different roles and expectations on their respective teams, Saturday was a moment for Martin to shine. She entered with three minutes left in the first quarter and guarded Clark for several possessions. The two former teammates chased loose balls together during the game. Martin’s extended playtime in the second half saw her make another three-pointer, a tough basket, and a free throw. She frequently faced Clark while bringing the ball up and inbounding. Bluder joined TV broadcasters Carolyn Peck and Krista Blunk during the first half, and Martin joined them postgame to reflect on the special night.
“It’s pretty cool when your college coaches are sitting courtside right next to the bench,” Martin said postgame. “Las Vegas just has a fun environment here. It’s a really fun team to be a part of. I’m grateful to be a part of this organization and have the fan support that we do here. And it’s cool that a lot of Hawkeye nation could come out as well.”
On playing against Clark, Martin added, “It was weird, I’m not going to lie. Just looking out on the court and seeing her in a different jersey than me, it was obviously different. But it’s really fun. We’re both living out our dreams right now, and we both get to compete at the highest level. So we’re both really grateful for that opportunity.”
