Madina Okot adapting to life in the states, SEC with Bulldogs

It’s been a journey a lifetime in the making for Madina Okot.

A native of Mumias, Kenya, Okot has worked incredibly hard to get an opportunity to play basketball and attend a university in the states. That journey has now landed her in Starkville, Miss., with Mississippi State University as she’s preparing to play basketball on the highest collegiate level.

“I’m not just excited, I’m over the moon because honestly this has not been easy,” Okot said. “I’ve been really working hard and it’s finally here. I’m just ready to get it all out because this is what I’ve been looking for.”

Basketball has become Okot’s ticket

At 6’6, Okot always knew that she was destined to make a difference in athletics. She began her career playing volleyball, but it didn’t suit her. Basketball became her passion, and she would do it at a high level.

The athletic center represented Kenya on the world’s stage. It began when she was 17 years old as she competed in England with the 3 X 3 team. Okot represented her country across the globe and drew eyeballs from the states.

Current State Associate Head Coach Fred Castro was among those that took notice when he was head coach at Eastern Michigan and he convinced Okot to sign. Visa issues would keep Okot from landing with the team and she went back to work in her home country last year.

Last year, Bulldog staff member Michelle Clark Heard made her own evaluation of Okot when she saw her play and State became a player in her recruitment. Okot did her research and was able to watch as the Bulldogs knocked off defending national champions LSU and she was impressed.  

When Okot signed with the Bulldogs her bond with the State staff strengthened and her relationship with the team grew that love.

“They’re friendly and have a good vibe. They’re always there for me and whenever I need something they will provide. If they can’t access it, they’ll work hard to help me get it,” Okot said. “The meetings that we have are really helpful because I get to spend time with every player and staff member. Those meetings are very important. In the locker room we always have a good time vibing.”

Getting to Starkville has been a challenge in itself. What kept her from getting to EMU brought the same issue in her journey to Mississippi. Okot applied for a Visa to the states four times and was denied every time over the last year.

Finally, Okot got cleared and was allowed to come to Starkville to start her college career in the states. The next step for Okot is getting eligible to play college ball due to the fact that she had started a college career in Kenya. MSU is optimistic that their waver to the NCAA will be granted and she will play this season.

Until then, Okot is putting in the work to be prepared when her name is called. She’s certainly impressing.

“Madina Okot is the definition of a diamond in the rough. Through her international experience with the Kenyan National Team, FIBA 3X3 and Nike Hoops Summit World Team, we were able to evaluate her as a top prospect with a bright future,” coach Sam Purcell said. “At 6’6, she immediately impacts our team with her size, athleticism and unique skill set. I can’t wait to get her on campus and on the court for our fans to embrace her.”

Just a couple of months in, Okot has certainly felt that embrace.

The food has taken some getting used to, but the hospitality has more than exceeded her expectations. The people of Mississippi and MSU have taken her in as one of their own and she’s grateful.

“I’m surprised about coming here and being treated the way I’ve been treated because I didn’t expect this,” Okot said. “Coming all the way from Kenya, there is no other African that I’ve encountered here but it still just feels like I’m home.”