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A young girl from rural Kenya blocked repeatedly by visa setbacks, is now stepping onto one of the biggest stages in global basketball. For Madina Okot, that journey has become a reality built on patience, discipline, and relentless effort.
The 21-year-old made headlines after being selected 13th overall by the Atlanta Dream in the 2026 WNBA Draft held in New York. Her selection places her among a new generation of players entering a rapidly evolving Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), and marks a major milestone for Kenyan basketball.
Standing at 6 feet 6 inches, Okot is set to earn about $1.29 million, roughly KSh 168 million, over four years. Her rookie season alone will bring in over KSh 37 million, with steady increases each year depending on performance and role within the team.
Her achievement carries historic weight, as she becomes the first Kenyan to be drafted in the first round of the WNBA. She adds to a short list of Kenyan players who have made it to the elite league.
Who is Madina Okot? Background, parents, age and early life
Born in Mukhweya, Matungu in Kakamega County, Okot grew up in a humble setting surrounded by a large, supportive family. Her parents, Jacquiline Sikuku and Musa Mulah Masai, are farmers based in Mumias, and she is one of eight siblings.
Her early life was far from the spotlight she now enjoys, but those close to her say her determination stood out from a young age. That drive would later shape her journey from local courts to international arenas.
Okot’s sporting journey did not begin with basketball. She first played volleyball at Bishop Sulumeti High School before switching to basketball after joining Kaya Tiwi. That decision proved to be a turning point, opening doors that would eventually lead her abroad.
Even then, the path was not smooth. Between 2022 and 2024, she was denied a US visa four times, a frustrating period that delayed her dream of playing college basketball in America.
Madina Okot education and basketball journey
Everything changed in August 2024 when she finally secured her visa and travelled to the United States. She initially joined Mississippi State University before transferring to the University of South Carolina in April 2025.
At South Carolina, she trained under renowned coach Dawn Staley, widely respected for developing top-tier talent for the WNBA. The move sharpened her skills and exposed her to high-level competition.
Before heading to the US, Okot had already built a foundation in Kenya, including playing for Zetech University. She also gained international exposure at just 17 when she represented Kenya in the FIBA Under-23 3×3 tournament in 2022.
She later featured in the 2022 Commonwealth Games 3×3 basketball event, experiences that helped shape her confidence and understanding of the game at a global level.
Madina Okot WNBA draft, salary and contract details
Okot’s selection in the 2026 draft came alongside her South Carolina teammate Raven Johnson, who was picked 10th overall by the Indiana Fever.
Under the league’s new pay structure, players selected between positions nine and fifteen are set to earn similar contracts worth about $1.29 million over four years. Okot’s earnings will grow each season, starting from approximately $289,133 in her rookie year.
Her salary could rise further if she secures a starting position with Atlanta, reflecting the league’s improved financial structure following the new Collective Bargaining Agreement signed earlier this year.
Top picks in the same draft include Azzi Fudd, who joined the Dallas Wings, Olivia Miles, now with the Minnesota Lynx, and Awa Fam, who signed with the Seattle Storm.
Did President William Ruto congratulate Madina Okot?
Back home, leaders have praised her achievement. President William Ruto described her success as a historic moment for the country and a source of inspiration for young girls.
“We celebrate the remarkable achievement of Madina Okot, who has become the first Kenyan ever drafted into the WNBA. This historic milestone fills our nation with pride and inspires young Kenyan athletes to pursue their dreams. Your journey is proof that even the boldest ambitions are within reach. Congratulations,” Ruto said.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa echoed the sentiment, stating:
“Madina Okot, our very own from Kakamega County, has etched her name in history as the first Kenyan to be drafted into the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) in the US. Rising from humble beginnings in Mukhweya, Matungu, she has defied the odds with grit and discipline to reach the pinnacle of the basketball game. Hearty congratulations as you conquer the courts, Nabakolwe. Kakamega is heavy!”
Madina Okot speaks on her journey and success
Despite her rapid rise, Okot said the reality of her achievement still feels surreal. Looking back, she admitted she never imagined reaching such heights within a short time.
“I honestly didn’t see myself being here today six years ago. I had to act like I was behind, and I had to be obsessed with details, putting in extra work and just being able to ask questions and learn from experienced players that were around me,” she said.
Her mindset, she explained, has always been rooted in learning and growth, taking every opportunity as a stepping stone toward her dream.
In another interview, she reflected on the emotional side of her journey, expressing deep gratitude for how far she has come.
“Sometimes I wake up, and I’m like, ‘Am I really here?’ I’m just so grateful. Every day I wake up, I feel like it’s a great opportunity to get what I once dreamt about. I’m here. It’s just something to be grateful for.”
WNBA is now approaching a season, with preseason games set for April 25 and the official tip-off on May 8.
