There’s something about Iowa basketball that just sticks with you. The grit, the magic, the loyalty. And nobody captured that better than Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin.
The two stars helped turn the Iowa Hawkeyes into a national sensation with back-to-back championship game runs in 2023 and 2024. While they fell short of the title, they built something even more powerful — an unshakable bond. And according to Martin’s dad, that story isn’t over yet.
Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin: The Story Isn’t Over
Matt Martin might not have the playbook in front of him, but he knows what he’s talking about. The father of the Golden State Valkyries guard recently shared a heartfelt take about the future of his daughter’s friendship with the Indiana Fever’s superstar.
“I just don’t think Caitlin and Kate are done. I think they’ll be reunited in some way again,” Martin told KCCI News. Not in a cryptic, maybe-one-day kind of way. This felt personal — a gut feeling only a dad who’s watched the journey from day one could express.
“I just don’t think Caitlin & Kate are done. I think they’ll be reunited in some way again” – Kate Dad
Someday stars will align for the both of them and win a ring together!✨pic.twitter.com/QWZne7S5kf
— Linny (@heyhheyyy) December 9, 2024
Martin went even further, giving Clark major props for helping his daughter believe in herself. “[Caitlin] really helped kinda give Kate confidence.” That right there? That’s bigger than a buzzer-beater. It’s the kind of support that goes beyond stat sheets and highlight reels.
Clark and Martin, side by side, lifted Iowa to heights few thought possible. And sure, the championship banner is still missing. But the impact? That’s permanent. The connection? Still strong.
From Iowa to the WNBA: Two Paths, Same Respect
The Indiana Fever are in a rough stretch right now, with Clark sidelined because of a quad injury. She missed her first regular-season game, a close 83–77 loss to the Washington Mystics, which dropped the Fever to 2–3 on the season. According to reports, the injury could keep her out for two weeks, though you just know Clark is itching to get back.
Martin, now suiting up for the Golden State Valkyries, knows that feeling all too well. And she didn’t hesitate to speak out.
MORE: WATCH — Caitlin Clark Arrives to Game on Baby Duty
Martin said it’ll be tough for Clark to sit out. She also added she’ll always be in her corner — a short, sweet reminder that their connection hasn’t faded one bit since leaving Iowa City.
Both players are settling into their WNBA seasons with different teams and challenges. But fans can’t help but circle one date: Thursday, June 19. That’s when the Valkyries head to Indianapolis to face the Fever. If all goes to plan, Clark might just be back in time — this time to reunite on opposite sides of the court.
