Owalo leads tributes as Okot makes historic WNBA breakthrough

Former basketball player and Gor Mahia patron Eliud Owalo has led tributes to Madina Okot following her historic selection into the WNBA, terming the milestone a defining moment for Kenyan sport.

Owalo, who played competitively from his school days through to university and club level, including stints with the Kenyatta University Pirates and Barclays Bank Eagles, spoke from a position of deep understanding of the game and the demands required to reach the global stage.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Madina Okot on the remarkable achievement of being drafted into the WNBA, becoming only one of three Kenyans to achieve this feat,” said Owalo.

Okot's selection marks a significant breakthrough for Kenyan basketball, placing her among a small but growing list of players from the country to reach the elite American league.

Her rise has been widely viewed as a reflection of both individual excellence and the untapped potential within the local game.

"This milestone is not only a testament to Madina's talent, discipline and resilience, but also a proud moment for Kenya and the African sporting community."

Her achievement comes at a time when Kenyan basketball continues to push for greater visibility on the international stage, with more players seeking opportunities abroad and in top-tier competitions.

As she prepares to embark on her professional career in the United States, expectations remain high that Okot will not only compete but thrive among the world's best.

Owalo noted that beyond the individual milestone, Okot's journey signals a shift in perception around Kenyan women's basketball and its potential on the global stage.

Her rise is expected to inspire a new generation of players, particularly young girls, with growing belief that Kenyan talent can break into elite global leagues with Okot's achievement already being celebrated as a landmark moment in Kenya's sporting progress.