• BASKETBALL

• Frank Rotich 3 hrs ago

Okot shines on WNBA debut with stunning double-double

Kenyan basketball star Madina Okot has made a dream start to life in the WNBA after delivering an outstanding performance in her very first preseason game.

The 21-year-old impressed as she helped Atlanta Dream secure an 87-78 win over Chicago Sky on Thursday morning. Despite coming off the bench and playing limited minutes, Okot led her team with 14 points and 11 rebounds, recording a brilliant double-double.

It was a special moment for the Kenyan centre, who only recently joined the Dream after being selected 13th overall in the WNBA Draft from the South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball. Her debut showed confidence and strength, proving she is ready for the big stage.

Okot entered the game late in the first quarter and quickly settled in, picking up a rebound and a steal. She scored her first points in the second quarter with a strong layup and continued to grow into the game.

After a steady first half, Okot came alive in the final quarter, dominating both ends of the court to reach double figures in points and rebounds with minutes still to play. Her impact was clear, even though she played fewer minutes than most of her teammates.

Her performance did not go unnoticed. Former college coach Dawn Staley praised her on social media, celebrating her strong start and calling her a “double-double queen.”

Standing at 6-foot-6, Okot built her reputation in college basketball, where she averaged 12.8 points and 10.6 rebounds in her final season, registering 22 double-doubles.

She now looks set to become an important player for the Dream as they prepare for the new season. The team will be back in action on Sunday, May 3, when they face the Washington Mystics in another preseason match.

For Kenya, Okot’s performance is a proud moment and a strong sign that more local talent can shine on the global basketball stage.