Of the two major Iowa women’s basketball news items that occurred Monday, Lisa Bluder announcing her retirement after back-to-back national title-game appearances actually would have seemed more plausible 15 months ago than Kate Martin making an opening-night WNBA roster.

Kate Martin's 6th grade letter to herself about Hawkeyes

That’s because 15 months ago, Martin wasn’t even sure she wanted to return to college for her sixth-year senior season.

Kate Martin, 'The Glue' of the Iowa women's basketball team, is in the midst of 'the best times of m | The Gazette

“It’s hard work being the glue,” her father, Matt Martin, recalled Monday night, referencing his daughter’s affectionate nickname among her adoring fans. (And, boy, are they are adoring.)

“Even though she loved her experience at Iowa, it’s still hard work” – being the captain, the glue and attending to everybody’s needs and wants. So, I understood when she questioned whether she wanted to return or not.

“But obviously she did, and there’s been a huge domino effect since. It’s just unbelievable.”

Who Are Kate Martin's Parents? Deep Dive into Family History of Iowa's Born Leader - EssentiallySports
Since Martin returned to Iowa, the world of Matt and Jill Martin, Kate’s parents, has also been turned upside down in many ways.

They can’t believe they’ve found themselves in meaningful conversation with “Ted Lasso” (actor Jason Sudeikis).

They have been to another Final Four, another national championship game. They also have come to grips with the fact that their daughter has become a celebrity – not exactly like Caitlin Clark, but not that far off.