In a historic breakthrough for African basketball, Kenyan star Madina Okot was selected 13th overall by the Atlanta Dream in the 2026 WNBA Draft on Monday evening. As a result, the 6-foot-6 standout from the South Carolina Gamecocks became the first Kenyan to secure a first-round selection, thereby cementing her place as the highest-drafted player in the country’s history across both the WNBA and NBA.
Notably, Okot’s rise to the professional level has been nothing short of extraordinary. Initially, the Mumias native began her athletic journey as a volleyball player before she picked up basketball for the first time in 2020 at Kaya Tiwi. From there, she rapidly developed her skills, moving from local Kenyan teams such as Zetech University and the national team to top-tier U.S. college basketball within just six years.
Reflecting on her journey, Okot admitted the moment still feels surreal. “Sometimes I wake up and I’m like, ‘Am I really here?’” she said after the draft. “Six years ago, I didn’t see myself being here today. My dream was to play in the WNBA, but I didn’t know it would happen this fast.”
Afterward, Okot built on her early success with a strong stint at Mississippi State before transferring to South Carolina for the 2025–26 season. Under the guidance of legendary coach Dawn Staley, she quickly emerged as a dominant force.
Okot’s Dream Realized
During her lone season with the Gamecocks, she consistently delivered standout performances. In fact, she became a double-double machine, leading the SEC with 10.6 rebounds per game while also contributing 12.8 points and 1.4 blocks. Moreover, she showcased elite efficiency by shooting 57.5% from the field and an impressive 44.8% from beyond the arc. Consequently, her contributions helped propel South Carolina to the NCAA Championship final, where she became the first Kenyan to appear in a Final Four.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Dream entered the draft with a clear objective. Following the departure of veteran Brittney Griner in free agency, the team sought to strengthen its interior presence. Therefore, Okot’s combination of strong footwork, rebounding dominance, and developing perimeter shooting made her an ideal fit for head coach Karl Smesko’s high-volume offensive system.
In Atlanta, Okot will join a competitive frontcourt alongside star forward Angel Reese. Additionally, she will reunite with former Gamecock teammates Allisha Gray and Te-Hina Paopao, further strengthening team chemistry.
Unsurprisingly, Coach Staley expressed immense pride in Okot’s rapid growth. She emphasized that although Okot remains relatively new to the sport, her maturity and determination to improve set her apart.
Looking ahead, analysts believe Okot’s journey is only just beginning. Indeed, many view her as a high-potential player whose raw talent will continue to evolve at the professional level.
Ultimately, Okot’s selection signals more than just personal success. For Kenya, it marks a significant step forward, ushering in a new era of global recognition for the nation’s basketball talent.