Move over, tropical beach days and lazy lounging by the pool—Kate Martin’s headed to Miami for some serious hoops. This time, it’s the 3×3 basketball tournament, where Martin, a Las Vegas Aces rookie, will join none other than WNBA powerhouse Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier. Think of it as the ultimate “Battle Royale” with just three players per team and no room to hide.
For fans of pure chaos on the court, the 3×3 tourney promises non-stop action. Not only is it fast-paced, but it’s also a place for Martin to step up from her quiet rookie year in the WNBA. Sure, she made her mark with the Iowa Hawkeyes back in the day, but the Aces, after a strong season defending their title, had her mostly warming the bench during the playoffs—much to the bewilderment of WNBA pundits. The move left fans scratching their heads and wondering if coach Becky Hammon had a vendetta against all things involving subs.
From Benchwarming to 3×3 Stardom?
Miami’s tournament is where Martin gets the perfect chance to show off her skills with a clean slate, no playbooks, and zero pressure of making regular-season headlines. At last, Martin won’t just be playing on the same team as some of the WNBA’s finest; she’ll be breathing the same intense, pressure-filled 3×3 air. And while she’s only got an average of 2.6 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 0.9 assists to show from her first season, those stats could mean little in this fast-and-furious game format.
And just when you thought the tournament roster was packed with enough star power, Martin made it official as the 27th sign-up—leaving room for just three more players. With everyone guessing who else will join the court, the buzz has already hit WNBA fan circles and beyond.
Spreading the Sunshine in South Beach
The 3×3 league itself is the brainchild of Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, who seem to be filling any post-season WNBA lull with a new kind of basketball energy. This six-team event features five players per squad, all eager to hustle for the limited real estate on the court.
The Aces might not have let Martin loose in the playoffs, but Sin City’s newest talent has her eyes set on Miami’s sunshine and the chance to prove she’s far more than just a sideline fixture. Will she shock critics and suddenly drop an insane stat line? Or maybe end up on a few too many highlight reels (for better or worse)? Only time will tell.
So if you’re looking for some offseason drama, keep an eye on Kate Martin and company at the 3×3 Miami showdown. Because if there’s one thing WNBA fans love, it’s a good underdog—and this rookie just might be Miami’s surprise hit.