The 2023-24 roster of the Iowa Hawkeyes was indeed a golden generation of players. The historic team that featured in two consecutive national championship games had a phenomenal blend of players displaying a supreme brand of basketball. Out of that charismatic lot, two phenomenal ballers Caitlin Clark and Kate Martin will now carve their individual destinies in two of the most prestigious franchises in the WNBA.

Both these former Hawkeye teammates are now headed their separate ways in the professional basketball world. But are they unhappy about their split up? Evidently not. According to Kate’s mother Jill, they have their reasons to be delighted about their independent journeys. In a recent interview, she said, “Caitlin was over last night, and we were packing.  I said, ‘Are you guys sad about all this?’ 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.”

Thus, implying that the duo want to face each other as opponents. This doesn’t imply any bad blood between the two. Rather, their professional side encourages them to be “excited” about new opportunities and unprecedented situations, like the one where they will compete against each other after being teammates for some time.

Clark who was the No.1 overall pick will represent the Indiana Fever in the WNBA. At the same time, the No. 18th pick overall Martin will have a chance to shine for the back-to-back WNBA title holders, the Las Vegas Aces. They are scheduled to lock horns for the first time this season on Saturday, May 25 at the Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas.

Meanwhile, Kate’s father Matt opines that his daughter has the potential to become more than just a player.

Can Kate Martin be a coach in the future?

Popularly referred to as “the glue” in her former team, Martin has the credentials of being an exceptional coach someday. Previously, WBCA announced her name in their 21st iteration of the ‘So You Want To Be A Coach’ program. Additionally, her father Matt Martin also believes the best place for her to hone her coaching skills is the Las Vegas Aces.

Speaking about Kate’s grace and leadership skills, he said, “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? 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.” 

It is exciting to witness both these exceptional talents showcase their stellar exhibition in the WNBA. Moreover, fans will also be eager to catch sight of what they have to offer against each other. We will have to wait and see what transpires in this upcoming duel. Are you excited about this encounter? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section.