The emotional story behind the tattoo on Kate Martin’s left arm

Kate Martin, the Las Vegas Aces guard, carries more than just skills on the court. On her left arm is a tattoo that reads “Sunshine,” a touching tribute to her late grandmother. The word “Sunshine” was handwritten on a Yahtzee card her grandmother gave her before passing in 2015. When Martin was old enough, she honored her memory by getting the phrase inked in her grandmother’s handwriting.

The tattoo embodies more than just a familial connection. It’s a symbol of resilience, warmth, and the power of relationships-qualities Martin exemplified during her time with the Iowa Hawkeyes and continues to showcase as a professional athlete.

From “The Glue” at Iowa to a New Bond in Las Vegas

Known as “The Glue” during her NCAA career, Martin’s reputation stems from her ability to bring people together. Her leadership and emotional intelligence played a significant role in guiding the Iowa Hawkeyes to two consecutive national championship games, proving that her contributions extended beyond the stat sheet. Caitlin Clark, a former teammate, praised Martin’s character, saying, “She’s got your back every day. Even if we butt heads, we know it makes us better.”

Since joining the Las Vegas Aces, Martin has continued building connections. Despite averaging limited minutes, her presence has been impactful. Veteran teammates like A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum have taken notice, with Wilson notably supporting Martin during an injury setback. “She’s one of us,” Wilson said. “We protect her peace and mental health. She’s family.”

Kate “Money” Martin: a rising star

Although she’s still adapting to the professional stage, Martin has made her mark by sinking clutch shots early in the season, earning her the nickname “Kate Money Martin” from Plum. The nickname speaks not just to her playing skills but to the trust and confidence she has quickly built within the team.

Martin’s journey from Iowa to Las Vegas reflects her enduring commitment to forming deep bonds and creating a sense of family wherever she plays. The tattoo on her arm may be a small piece of ink, but it serves as a constant reminder of the love, strength, and unwavering support that define her approach to both life and basketball.

A bright future ahead

As Martin continues to learn from seasoned players, she has the opportunity to further hone her skills and make a significant impact on the Aces. With her jersey among the top five bestsellers in the league, it’s clear that fans see more than just a promising player-they see someone who brings heart to the game.

The story of her tattoo, much like her career, is a testament to the bonds she builds, the resilience she carries, and the sunshine she brings to every team she’s a part of.