Kenyan youngster Madina Okot joins Gamecocks in another major U.S. basketball move

Kenyan basketball star Madina Okot has made headlines once again after signing with the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball team.

The 6-foot-6 center from Mumias joins the second-ranked Gamecocks following their stellar 2024/25 season.

Gamecocks, known for their dominance and depth, advanced to the Final Four and narrowly missed out on the NCAA national title, falling to a Juju Watkins-led University of South Florida. The run further cemented South Carolina’s place as one of the premier programs in Division I women’s basketball.

Okot, formerly of Mississippi State, brings valuable SEC experience, elite size, and a dominant defensive presence.

She averaged 11.3 points and a team-high 9.6 rebounds for Mississippi State last season, ranking fourth in the SEC in rebounding and improving to 10.1 per SEC game.

Okot’s scoring came on an SEC-best 64.9 percent shooting, which ranked fourth in the nation. She recorded double figures in 22 of her 34 games, including a pair of 20-point outings. Okot finished the season with 12 double-doubles and was 10th in the SEC with 1.12 blocks per game.

With the departure of key frontcourt players due to graduation and injury, the Gamecocks targeted Okot for her ability to make an immediate impact, both defensively and on the glass.

Head coach Dawn Staley highlighted Okot’s potential and fit within the system, calling her a “game-changer” who’s ready to take the next step.

“Madina gives our frontcourt additional size and speed,” Staley said. “She has the ability to score, rebound and defend, and her competitiveness and SEC experience are added bonuses. We’re excited to bring her to our Gamecock family, and I know the FAMS are going to love watching her play.”