Mississippi State’s frontcourt took a major hit with the April 4 entry of Madina Okot into the transfer portal. The 6’6″ Kenyan center delivered 11.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game in the 2024-25 season.
Known for her imposing 8’8″ standing reach and international success as a FIBA 3×3 Africa Cup champion, Okot offers elite rim protection. Her dominance was clear in a 21-point, 23-rebound outing against Vanderbilt.
Top Landing Spots for Madina Okot
As one of the most coveted bigs available, she’s expected to draw serious interest from programs in need of a powerful interior presence. Here are five potential landing spots for the former Mississippi State star:
South Carolina Gamecocks
South Carolina has emerged as a serious contender for Okot, following reports of her campus visit to Columbia. With Head Coach Dawn Staley seeking to strengthen her frontcourt, Okot’s scoring and rim protection fit the bill. The Gamecocks are looking to fill the gap left by MiLaysia Fulwiley, who recently entered the portal.
Mississippi State transfer Madina Okot via Raven Johnson’s IG.
Okot’s been hanging out with @GamecockWBB today and they aren’t being shy about it. pic.twitter.com/LLBWXMgyfK
— Jared Parker (@jaredparkertv) April 19, 2025
Although forward Chloe Kitts remains in the mix and has shown notable growth, the recent addition of guard Ta’Niya Latson from Florida State will only partially compensate for Fulwiley’s scoring. Okot’s interior presence could complete that puzzle.
Ole Miss Rebels
Ole Miss is gaining momentum as a possible landing spot for the 6-foot-6 center. Head Coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin has used the portal to reshape her roster in recent years, and her emphasis on defensive toughness aligns well with Okot’s profile.
The Rebels are bringing in forward Kharyssa Richardson, but Okot’s rebounding and experience would give Ole Miss a stronger, more complete frontcourt presence.
Louisville Cardinals
Jeff Walz’s Cardinals are also in the mix. The veteran coach has built a program known for developing post talent, including during his time at Minnesota. Louisville’s 2024-25 roster already features several forwards, along with center Eseosa Imafidon. Adding Okot would bolster depth and bring a proven interior contributor to a team with national aspirations.
Ohio State Buckeyes
With Cotie McMahon exploring portal options, Ohio State is in search of a new centerpiece. Okot’s size and physicality would offer a much-needed inside presence to balance a perimeter-focused lineup. Her defensive skills could help fill the void and elevate the Buckeyes’ interior play.
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Florida State Seminoles
Following Ta’Niya Latson’s departure, FSU is looking for leadership and consistency. Okot, who started every game at Mississippi State, brings both. Though not a guard, her steady production and two-way ability would provide stability to a Seminole team in transition.
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