The family of ex-Hawkeye player Kate Martin rejoiced as they witnessed her selection in the WNBA draft.
This week marked a significant stride towards her long-held aspiration, delighting her parents in particular.

On Monday, the Las Vegas Aces drafted Martin in the second round as the 18th pick overall. Her parents say the excitement has been exhilarating, but they were unaware of how much national attention their daughter would receive.

“There is something that people like about Kate. People are rooting for her. I think you can see it,” her father, Matt Martin, said.

Kate Martin, originally from Edwardsville, Illinois, now resides with her parents in the Quad Cities. According to them, she harbored the desire to join the Iowa Hawkeyes since the tender age of 5. Presently, she proudly contributes to a renowned team that has made consecutive appearances in NCAA championships, marking a historic achievement.

Video: Family of former Hawkeye Kate Martin reacts to her being drafted. Watch the video below!

Martin’s teammates have lovingly called her “the glue” that has kept her teams together. Those who know her best say her grace and leadership make her destined to be a coach someday.

“If you know the history of the Las Vegas Aces and their championship pedigree, and you know the history of their coach, Ms. Hammon, what better place?” Matt Martin said. “If Kate is going to be a coach, what better place for Kate to learn. It’s funny how things work out the way they are supposed to be.”

Martin’s father says, initially, they were hoping she would be drafted to the same team as Caitlin Clark, but they are happy she was picked by the Las Vegas Aces.

Clark, of course, went No. 1 overall to the Indiana Fever.

“Caitlin was over last night, and we were packing. I said, ‘Are you guys sad about all this?‘” Jill Martin said. “They said no. They are fine with it. They are excited about it. I think it will be fun for them to play against each other.”