Madina Okot: Four Visa Rejections, Now Living the American Dream

Kenyan centre Madina Okot has been selected 13th overall by the Atlanta Dream in the 2026 WNBA Draft, becoming the first Kenyan to secure a first-round pick.

The 21-year-old’s selection was announced at the draft event in New York City, marking a major milestone in her career and for Kenyan basketball. Okot had previously faced four US visa denials between 2022 and 2024 before successfully relocating in August 2024, a move that enabled her rapid progress through the American collegiate system.

Standing at 6 feet 6 inches, Okot enters the WNBA with strong potential and a significant rookie contract. Players drafted between ninth and 15th this year are expected to earn about $1.29 million over four years under a revised pay structure. Her salary is projected to increase from approximately $289,000 in her first season to nearly $374,000 in her fourth year.

The updated salary framework follows a newly agreed collective bargaining agreement that raises team salary caps and improves earnings across the league. Minimum salaries now exceed what previously counted as maximum pay, reflecting a shift in the WNBA’s financial structure.

Okot joins a small group of Kenyan players who have reached the WNBA, including Josephine Owino and Olivia Nelson-Ododa. She is, however, the first from Kenya to be drafted in the opening round.

Her development accelerated in the United States. After beginning at Mississippi State, she transferred to the University of South Carolina, where she played under coach Dawn Staley. The programme’s record of developing professional players contributed to her growth and visibility ahead of the draft.

During the most recent NCAA season, Okot played a role in South Carolina’s deep tournament run. Her performances attracted attention from WNBA scouts, particularly as the league continues to expand and invest in emerging talent.

The 2026 draft class highlights the league’s changing landscape. Top pick Azzi Fudd leads a group that benefits from increased rookie salaries, alongside other high selections such as Olivia Miles and Awa Fam.

Okot’s path began in school-level volleyball in western Kenya before she transitioned to basketball. After overcoming visa challenges, she now prepares to compete at the professional level.

The WNBA season is set to begin in May, when Okot will aim to carry her collegiate form into her rookie campaign.