Madina Okot holding up an Atlanta Dream jersey with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert/HANDOUT

President William Ruto has led the country in celebrating Madina Okot following her historic selection into the WNBA, marking the first time a Kenyan has been drafted into the elite league.

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In a congratulatory message on Wednesday, the President hailed Okot’s achievement as a proud moment for the nation and a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes.

“We celebrate the remarkable achievement of Madina Okot, who has become the first Kenyan ever drafted into the WNBA,” said Ruto.

“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,” he added.

Okot’s breakthrough is expected to shine a spotlight on Kenya’s growing presence in international basketball, with sports stakeholders expressing optimism that her success will open doors for more local talent on the global stage.

“Congratulations,” the President concluded.

Okot made history as the first Kenyan player selected to feature in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) after being drafted by the Atlanta Dream.

The milestone places her among the newest additions to one of the world’s most competitive women’s basketball leagues, which features 12 elite teams.

Okot, born in Mumias in western Kenya, is a centre standing at 6’6” and is known for her strong interior presence, rebounding ability, and growing offensive versatility.

She began her basketball journey in 2020, first playing at Zetech University in Kenya before moving to the United States to pursue higher-level competition.

Her college career saw her feature for the Mississippi State Bulldogs for two seasons before transferring to the University of South Carolina, where she continued her rapid development.

At South Carolina, she averaged 10.6 rebounds and 12.8 points while shooting 57.5 per cent from the floor, establishing herself as one of the most efficient frontcourt players in the programme.

She was also part of the South Carolina Gamecocks squad that reached the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship final, competing at the highest level of collegiate basketball in the United States.