Marta Suarez’s journey in professional basketball has taken a significant turn as she was selected 16th overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft by the Seattle Storm. This moment marks a pivotal point in her career, highlighting her impressive performance during her collegiate years and her potential to make a substantial impact in the league.
During her time at TCU, Suarez showcased her skills by averaging 17.1 points and 7.4 rebounds per game in the 2025 season. Her performance earned her recognition as an All-Big 12 First Team player, solidifying her reputation as one of the top talents in women’s college basketball. Standing at 6-3, Suarez’s height and versatility as a forward make her a valuable asset on the court.
Before her time at TCU, Suarez played two seasons at Tennessee, where she was honored as an All-SEC Freshman Team selection in 2021. This foundation laid the groundwork for her success at TCU, where she continued to develop her skills and contribute significantly to her team’s performance.
Following her selection in the draft, Suarez was traded to the Golden State Valkyries in exchange for Flau’jae Johnson and a 2028 second-round pick. This trade reflects the Valkyries’ commitment to building a competitive team and their belief in Suarez’s potential to thrive in the WNBA.
Ohemaa Nyanin, the Valkyries’ coach, expressed enthusiasm about bringing Suarez to the Bay Area, stating, “We are excited to welcome Marta back to the Bay.” Nyanin also praised Suarez’s leadership qualities, noting, “Kokoro is a fearless young leader, and watching her from afar at the 2025 FIBA Women’s Asia Cup made it clear she is something special.” Such endorsements from her coach indicate the high expectations surrounding her transition to the professional level.
Suarez’s international experience is also noteworthy, as she represented Spain at the 2021 FIBA U19 Women’s World Cup. This exposure to high-level competition has undoubtedly contributed to her development as a player and her readiness to take on the challenges of the WNBA.
As Suarez embarks on this new chapter with the Golden State Valkyries, the community is eager to see how her skills will translate to the professional stage. With her impressive track record and the support of her new team, the future looks bright for this talented player.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding her immediate impact on the team and how the Valkyries will integrate her into their lineup. However, fans and analysts alike are looking forward to witnessing her growth and contributions in the upcoming season.
