The Atlanta Dream has strengthened its frontcourt by selecting Kenyan center Madina Okot with the 13th overall pick in the 2026 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Draft.
Okot, a 6-foot-6 center from Mumias, comes to Atlanta following a quick climb through the ranks of American college basketball, where she established herself as one of the most prolific interior players in the NCAA despite only starting at the age of 16.
Rapid Rise from Kenya to NCAA Dominance
Okot’s journey stands out for its quickly and unique development route. Growing up in Mumias, she first played volleyball before switching to basketball in her mid-teens. Despite her late start, she swiftly adapted to top competition in the United States.
Before moving to South Carolina, she played her freshman year at Mississippi State, where she started every game and averaged 11.2 points and 9.6 rebounds. She also had 12 double-doubles in that season, demonstrating her early ability to control the glass and finish effectively around the rim.
In just two seasons of NCAA competition, Okot grew into a high-impact center recognized for her rebounding prowess, interior defense, and muscular presence in the paint.
Okot’s biggest distinguishing feature is her rebounding productivity, which has put her among the national leaders. She finished third in the country with 22 double-doubles and averaged 10.6 rebounds per game, ranking her 16th nationally.
Recognition in the SEC and National Stage
Okot’s impact was evident throughout the Southeastern Conference. In 2024, she was named to the All-SEC Second Team, solidifying her status as one of the conference’s most effective frontcourt players.
Atlanta Dream General Manager Dan Padover hailed her as a long-term development project with great promise, noting that she had been on the team’s radar for quite some time before to the selection.
“We believe her best basketball is ahead of her,” Padover said. “She’s a great talent with an unlimited upside.”
Defensive Mobility and Physical Upside
Beyond statistics, Okot’s appeal lies in her physical tools and defensive mobility. At 6-foot-6, she brings rare size to the WNBA frontcourt, but she also combines that frame with improving agility and defensive awareness.
Atlanta Dream Head Coach Karl Smesko highlighted her rebounding instincts and defensive movement as key factors in the team’s decision to select her at No. 13.
“Her ability to crash the boards and the way she moves defensively, I think she’ll be a good addition,” Smesko noted, adding that the organization had been uncertain whether she would still be available when their pick arrived.
Her defensive profile suggests potential to develop into a rim protector and low-post anchor, particularly if she continues refining positioning and timing at the professional level.
From Late Start to Professional Stage
One of the most compelling aspects of Okot’s profile is her late introduction to basketball. Unlike many elite prospects who begin training in childhood, she only picked up organized basketball at 16.
With Okot joining fellow selections Indya Nivar and Kejia Ran, the Dream’s draft class reflects a broader strategy centered on defensive intensity, versatility, and physical athleticism.
Looking Ahead
Okot enters the WNBA with a clear identity, a high-upside center who impacts games through rebounding, physicality, and defensive presence. Her journey from Mumias to South Carolina and now to the professional stage represents one of the more rapid ascents in recent women’s basketball development pathways.
As the Atlanta Dream prepare for the 2026 season opener against the defending champion Las Vegas Aces, Okot’s progression will be closely watched as part of a broader effort to reshape the team’s competitive trajectory in a demanding league landscape.
