Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks have added a major piece to their frontcourt, landing 6-foot-6 center Madina Okot through the transfer portal. The former Mississippi State standout brings much-needed size, elite rebounding, and efficient scoring to Columbia.
Okot made her commitment after an official visit to South Carolina, becoming the program’s second portal addition this offseason. She joins former Florida State guard Ta’Niya Latson as part of the Gamecocks’ revamped roster heading into the 2025–26 season.
Towering over her new teammates, Okot is now the tallest player on the Gamecocks’ roster. She boasts an 8-foot-8 standing reach and a 6-foot-10 wingspan—making her a major interior presence on both ends of the court.
Originally from Kenya, Okot played collegiately at Zetech University before coming to the United States. She also represented the Kenyan National Team between 2022 and 2024, gaining valuable international experience.
In her lone season at Mississippi State, Okot averaged 11.3 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. She ranked third in scoring for the Bulldogs while leading the team in both rebounds and blocked shots. Her efficiency was unmatched in the SEC, finishing with a conference-best 64.9% field goal percentage.
Okot faced South Carolina during the season, posting four points, eight rebounds, and two blocks. Her most dominant outing came against Vanderbilt, where she racked up 21 points and an eye-popping 23 rebounds. She recorded 12 double-doubles throughout the year, showcasing her consistent impact in the paint.
With Okot’s arrival, Staley strengthens her post rotation with a proven force capable of anchoring the paint and influencing games on both ends.
