Dawn Staley Breaks Silence After Madina Okot Signs: โGamecock Nation, Youโre Gonna Love This One!โ
In a bold and exciting announcement, South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley broke her silence on the latest addition to her rosterโtowering Kenyan center Madina Okot. The 6-foot-5 phenom has officially committed to the Gamecocks, and Staley could not be more thrilled.
โGamecock Nation, youโre gonna love this one!โ Staley exclaimed in a social media post that sent fans into a frenzy. โMadina brings a presence on the court that you canโt teachโsize, instincts, and a hunger to grow. Sheโs exactly the kind of player we thrive with here in Columbia.โ
Okot, known for her shot-blocking prowess and commanding presence in the paint, is regarded as one of the most promising international prospects in the 2025 class. At just 18 years old, she has already turned heads with her performances at youth tournaments across Africa and Europe, where sheโs dominated on both ends of the floor.
The signing marks a continued trend for South Carolina, which has emerged as a powerhouse in recruiting elite frontcourt talent. Coming off a dominant 2024 season, the Gamecocks are looking to reload and stay at the top of the NCAA ranksโand Okot could be a key part of that plan.
โMadina fits our culture,โ said Staley. โSheโs humble, hungry, and has a defensive mindset thatโs going to make our team even tougher to score against. Her ceiling is incredibly high, and weโre going to help her reach it.โ
Fans are already buzzing with anticipation about what Okotโs arrival means for the teamโs dynamic. Her addition provides the Gamecocks with even more size, rebounding power, and rim protectionโan area in which theyโve already excelled.
โThis is more than just a good signingโitโs a game-changer,โ said one analyst. โOkot has the potential to be a cornerstone for South Carolina over the next few years.โ
Staleyโs track record with developing post players speaks for itself. From Aโja Wilson to Aliyah Boston, South Carolina has become a launching pad for elite bigs looking to make an impact on the college stage and beyond.
With Okot now officially part of the family, expectations are sky-high once again in Columbia. And if Staleyโs words are any indication, fans should brace themselves for something special.
โTrust me,โ she said, โyouโre gonna love this one.โ

