In the fast-paced world of professional basketball, rivalries often define the competition. However, for Kate Martin and her Unrivaled League teammates, the dynamics inside the locker room tell a different story. The Las Vegas Aces rookie and former Iowa standout recently shared her candid thoughts about competing alongside WNBA opponents in the inaugural season of Unrivaled, the innovative 3×3 women’s basketball league.
Breaking Barriers in Unrivaled
Unrivaled, co-founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, is designed to give players more financial and competitive opportunities outside the traditional league structure. The new league brings together some of the best talents from different WNBA teams, creating unique locker-room interactions that blur the lines between competition and camaraderie.
Martin, who played a crucial role in leading the Iowa Hawkeyes to the NCAA Championship game before joining the Aces, admitted that at first, the thought of sharing space with direct WNBA competitors was unfamiliar. “It’s definitely different. You come in expecting some natural tension because we’re used to going head-to-head. But once you’re here, you realize that you can’t really judge people based on the rivalries we’ve built in the WNBA,” Martin explained.
From Opponents to Teammates
Martin is currently playing for the Laces, one of the six teams in Unrivaled’s inaugural season. Her teammates include players she faced during the WNBA season, making the transition an adjustment. “At the end of the day, we’re all just competitors who love the game. You learn to respect each other more when you share the same goals.”
The 3×3 format has allowed Martin to showcase a different side of her game, focusing on quick decision-making and high-energy play. She has been instrumental in helping the Laces secure a strong position in the league standings.
Looking Ahead
As the Unrivaled season progresses, Martin is embracing the challenge of balancing both leagues. “This experience has been amazing. It’s given me new friendships and a fresh perspective on the game,” she added.
Martin’s journey in both Unrivaled and the WNBA continues to inspire young athletes, proving that competition and respect can coexist at the highest levels.
