Gamecocks Reload Frontcourt with Addition of Mississippi State Transfer Madina Okot
The University of South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team has once again made a significant splash in the transfer portal, securing the commitment of 6-foot-6 forward Madina Okot from Mississippi State. This addition comes as a welcome boost to the Gamecocks’ frontcourt, addressing a need for size and experience as they look to build on their recent national championship game appearance.
Okot, a senior who hails from Mumias, Kenya, brings a wealth of talent and Southeastern Conference (SEC) experience to Columbia. During her junior season with the Bulldogs, she proved to be a dominant force in the paint, averaging an impressive 11.3 points and a team-high 9.6 rebounds per game. Her rebounding prowess ranked fourth in the entire SEC, a testament to her tenacity and positioning on both ends of the court. Notably, her rebounding average climbed to 10.1 per game in SEC matchups, highlighting her ability to perform against top competition.
What makes Okot’s scoring particularly efficient is her remarkable 64.9 percent shooting from the field, which not only led the SEC but also ranked fourth nationally. This accuracy underscores her ability to finish effectively around the basket and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Beyond scoring and rebounding, Okot also contributed defensively, averaging 1.1 blocks and 1.4 steals per game, showcasing her versatility and impact on both ends of the floor.
Prior to her time in the NCAA, Okot cultivated a diverse and successful international basketball career. She played for Zetech University in Nairobi and participated in the FIBA Africa Women’s Basketball League (AWBL). In the 2022-23 AWBL season, she averaged 10.9 points and 9.3 rebounds across four different competitions, demonstrating her consistent production against international talent. Furthermore, as part of the Kenya Port Authority (KPA) team in 2023, Okot averaged a league-best 11.0 rebounds and 14.0 points per game, leading her team to a runner-up finish in league play.
Okot also boasts experience in 3×3 basketball, a fast-paced and dynamic version of the sport. She played a key role in helping the Kenya U23 National Team qualify for the 2022 World Championships. She then made her debut for the 3×3 Senior Team at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. A significant achievement in her 3×3 career came when Kenya was crowned the FIBA 3×3 Africa Cup Champion at a 2024 Paris Olympic Games pre-qualifying tournament, underscoring her ability to compete and succeed at the highest levels of international basketball.
South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley expressed her enthusiasm about Okot joining the Gamecock family. “Madina gives our frontcourt additional size and speed,” Staley stated. “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.”
Okot’s 1 arrival in Columbia follows the addition of Florida State transfer Ta’Niya Latson, a dynamic guard, and incoming freshman Ayla McDowell, a talented player from Cypress Springs High School in Texas. These additions signal a clear intention by Coach Staley to strengthen the roster and address any perceived weaknesses from the previous season. Notably, the Gamecocks faced criticism regarding a lack of dominant post presence, particularly in comparison to the program’s storied history with players like Aliyah Boston and Kamilla Cardoso. Okot’s 6-foot-6 frame and proven rebounding ability directly address this need.
While the Gamecocks will be without MiLaysia Fulwiley, who entered the transfer portal, the addition of Okot and Latson injects significant talent and experience into the team. Okot’s familiarity with the SEC landscape from her time at Mississippi State should allow for a smoother transition and immediate impact. Her rebounding and interior scoring will complement the skills of returning players and other newcomers, providing the Gamecocks with a formidable frontcourt rotation.
Looking ahead to the 2025-2026 season, Okot is expected to play a crucial role in South Carolina’s quest for another national championship. Her size, strength, and SEC experience make her a valuable asset on both ends of the court. Her ability to score efficiently in the paint and secure rebounds will alleviate pressure on other players and provide the Gamecocks with a reliable interior presence.
The Gamecocks’ roster for the 2025-2026 season is shaping up to be a blend of experienced transfers and promising young talent. With the addition of Madina Okot, South Carolina has reinforced its commitment to maintaining a high level of competitiveness and pursuing excellence on the national stage. Gamecock fans can look forward to seeing Okot’s impact as she joins a program with a rich history and a continued drive for success.
