Kenyan basketball star Madina Okot has made history after being selected 13th overall by the Atlanta Dream in the 2026 WNBA Draft.
Historic First for Kenya
The 6-foot-6 standout becomes the first Kenyan ever selected in the first round of the WNBA Draft, making her the highest-drafted player in the country’s history across both women’s and men’s professional basketball.
Remarkable Rise to the Top
Okot’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. The Mumias native only began playing basketball in 2020 at Kaya Tiwi Secondary School, having initially been a volleyball player.
Her rapid rise saw her feature for Zetech University and the Kenya national team before transitioning to U.S. college basketball.
College Success in the U.S.
After a stint at Mississippi State Bulldogs, she transferred to South Carolina Gamecocks for the 2025–26 season, where she thrived under coach Dawn Staley.
In her lone season, Okot averaged 12.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, emerging as one of the top performers in the SEC.
Her impressive displays helped the Gamecocks reach the NCAA Championship final, making her the first Kenyan to play in a Final Four.
Perfect Fit for Atlanta Dream
The Dream, led by head coach Karl Smesko, were seeking to strengthen their interior presence following the departure of Brittney Griner.
Okot’s rebounding ability, footwork, and emerging perimeter shooting make her an ideal fit for the team’s system.
Star-Studded Teammates
In Atlanta, she joins a strong lineup that includes Angel Reese and reunites with former teammates Allisha Gray and Te-Hina Paopao.
Pride for Kenya
Her selection marks a major milestone for Kenyan basketball, signaling growing global recognition of the country’s talent.
Analysts believe Okot’s potential is immense, with her rapid development suggesting she could become a dominant force in the WNBA.
For Kenya, her achievement represents a new era of international visibility and inspiration for upcoming athletes.
