Whether you’re familiar with women’s basketball or not, Caitlin Clark is likely a name you’ve heard. The standout point guard played for Iowa from 2020 to 2024, breaking the NCAA’s all-time leading scoring record across both men’s and women’s categories in her final year. Clark also set over 46 records during her collegiate career. Despite these accolades, her former teammate Sydney Affolter doesn’t view Clark as a leadership figure. Instead, Affolter admires another Iowa alum, whom she plans to emulate in the upcoming season.
Following Clark’s graduation, Affolter is now the captain of the Hawkeyes. During a recent media session, she revealed that she looks up to Kate Martin for leadership guidance. Affolter praised Martin, saying, “Kate was an amazing role model for me and someone to learn from as a leader. I’ve always had that confidence to be a leader and be the voice people look up to. Me and Kate are very similar in our personalities and how we play. She brought everyone together and was that voice for the team, and I’m excited to be that voice this year.”
Kate Martin, who captained the Hawkeyes for four seasons, led the team to two NCAA Championship Finals in 2023 and 2024 under coach Lisa Bluder. Martin was regarded as the team’s enforcer, known for her foresight and leadership qualities. Even Caitlin Clark, despite her superstar status, praised Martin’s leadership, saying, “She’s probably the best leader I’ve ever been around in my entire life.” Martin’s leadership was also acknowledged by head coach Bluder and her assistant, now head coach Jan Jensen. Fans often referred to her as “the glue” that held the team together. Martin even used an extra year of eligibility to return to the Hawkeyes in 2023, further cementing her influence on the team.
Martin’s fanbase grew significantly, even after her transition to the WNBA. Drafted by the Las Vegas Aces in the second round, she did not expect much but was pleasantly surprised when her Aces jersey sold out just four games into the season. Her fan group, who call themselves “Martinis,” grew disappointed when she was benched for several games. However, her leadership and fan following remained strong, with many looking forward to her growth in the WNBA.
Even though Martin has not yet reached the caliber of the top stars in the league, her leadership qualities make her a role model for Affolter and potentially for other players in the WNBA.
Leave a Reply