Kate Martin, one of coach Natalie Nakase’s favorite players and a key member of the Valkyries’ rotation in their inaugural season, was waived Thursday as Golden State set its 2026 roster.

Martin’s omission isn’t the only surprising twist, as the Valkyries announced they have filed for a replacement contract for center Iliana Rupert due to pregnancy. That transaction is awaiting league approval, so Rupert was included in Golden State’s initial 12-player roster.

The Valkyries open the season Friday in Seattle against the Storm, where free-agent addition Gabby Williams will face her former team. Williams was Golden State’s highest-profile offseason signing, but Rupert’s pregnancy will thrust 10-year veteran and recent signee Kiah Stokes into a more important role as she’s the lone center on the Valkyries’ roster.

Rupert, 24, started 11 games for the Valkyries last season and averaged 9.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. She’s a stretch-five who can consistently hit shots from beyond the arc and was projected to start for the Valkyries this season.

The decision to waive Martin cleared the way for GM Ohemaa Nyanin to keep point guard Kaitlyn Chen and forward Laeticia Amihere, who appeared to be battling for the final roster spot. Chen will back up star point guard Veronica Burton while Amihere should play an important role in the frontcourt and provide depth behind All-Star Kayla Thornton, second-year starter Janelle Salaün, and sharpshooter Cecilia Zandalasini.

Martin, who was diagnosed with a Grade 2 right quad strain, appeared in 42 of the Valkyries’ 44 games last season and averaged 6.2 points. Teams will have 48 hours to claim Martin, who could return to the Valkyries if she clears waivers.

If Golden State is awarded a replacement contract for Rupert, Martin could be a logical candidate to rejoin the roster unless Nyanin and Nakase would prefer adding another center. The Valkyries listed Martin as “day-to-day” on Tuesday and she could be cleared to return to play soon.

The Valkyries used only one of their two developmental contract slots, signing Australian guard Miela Sowah. Martin could theoretically return as a development player, but she might prefer a more significant opportunity elsewhere as development players are limited to 12 games per season.

Here’s a look at Golden State’s initial roster.

Guards

• Veronica Burton

• Kaitlyn Chen

• Tiffany Hayes

Guard/forwards

• Kaila Charles

• Juste Joctye

• Gabby Williams

Forwards

• Laeticia Amihere

• Janelle Salaün

• Kayla Thornton

• Cecilia Zandalasini

Centers

• Iliana Rupert*

• Kiah Stokes

Developmental player

• Miela Sowah