Kenyan basketball sensation Madina Okot's remarkable rise on the global stage has taken another major step after the Atlanta Dream centre signed for Australian newcomers Tasmania Jewels ahead of the 2026-2027 Women's National Basketball League (WNBL) season.
The 21-year-old, who celebrates her 22nd birthday on August 23, becomes the Jewels' second international signing and the final addition to their inaugural squad, subject to league approval.
For Okot, whose basketball journey only began six years ago at Kaya Tiwi Girls High School, the move is yet another milestone in one of the sport's most inspiring success stories. The towering 6-foot-6 centre from Mumias, Kakamega County, first picked up a basketball in 2020 after initially playing volleyball at Bishop Sulumeti Girls High School. Since then, her career has accelerated at an astonishing pace.
After starring for Kenya Basketball Federation Women Premier League sides Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Zetech University, Okot earned a scholarship to the United States in 2024, featuring for Mississippi State before transferring to South Carolina. Her rapid development saw her selected 13th overall in the WNBA Draft before joining the Atlanta Dream, where she has already attracted praise as one of the league's brightest young prospects.
Reports in Australia say Tasmania coach Claudia Brassard believes the Kenyan international completes a well-balanced roster capable of competing immediately in the club's debut campaign.
Brassard was quoted in the media describing Okot as an imposing presence, highlighting her 6-foot-10 wingspan, physical style of play and ability to dominate both ends of the floor.
"Madina is the final piece of our team. She gives us a huge presence in the paint, is an elite rebounder and will strengthen us defensively," said Brassard.
"Considering she is still relatively new to basketball, her potential is enormous. She's only beginning to show what she's capable of."
Okot said the club's culture and commitment to player development convinced her that Tasmania was the ideal destination at this stage of her career.
After speaking with Atlanta Dream teammate Isobel Borlase and meeting the coaching staff virtually, she was impressed by the professionalism and player-first environment.
"I like the team's culture and how they take care of their players. I can't wait to meet everyone and get started," Okot said.
Reflecting on her unlikely journey, Okot admitted basketball was never part of her original plan.
"I was just playing volleyball and decided to try something different. Basketball came naturally to me, and I quickly fell in love with it," she noted.
She added that competing in the WNBA has transformed her game, giving her the opportunity to learn from some of the world's best players and coaches every day.
Okot joins a Tasmania squad featuring Steph Reid, Keely Froling, Darcee Garbin, Brooke Basham, Chloe Broomhall, Portia Chopping, Katie Deeble, Mia Jacobs, Gianna Kneepkens, Ava McDonald, Taylor Mole, Nikki Parker, Andie Smith, Georgia Taylor and Ella Tofaeono.
The Jewels will make their historic WNBL debut against Geelong at MyState Bank Arena on October 15, with Okot expected to play a key role as the expansion club begins its first chapter.
