Although the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team had an outstanding 2024-25 NCAA season, one recurring critique of their roster was the absence of a dominant post presence.
This shortcoming was particularly noticeable given the caliber of post players coach Dawn Staley has had in recent years, like Aliyah Boston—now a star with the Indiana Fever and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft—and Kamilla Cardoso, who went third overall in 2024 to the Chicago Sky. While the Gamecocks still managed to reach the 2025 national championship game, this lack of interior dominance proved costly in their matchup against UConn.
It’s no surprise, then, that strengthening the post position became a top priority for Staley and her staff during the offseason. And they made a significant move on Monday, landing a commitment from 6-foot-6 senior center Madina Okot, formerly of Mississippi State.
BREAKING: Mississippi State transfer Madina Okot has committed to South Carolina, sources told @On3sports.
The 6-6 junior averaged 11.3 ppg and 9.6 rpg this season.
TRACKER: https://t.co/StsxDxjlYl pic.twitter.com/be1MLHVeTq
— Talia Goodman (@TaliaGoodmanWBB) April 22, 2025
Okot averaged 11.3 points and 9.6 rebounds per game last season for the Bulldogs. In their January 5 matchup. where Mississippi State fell 95-68 to South Carolina she contributed 4 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks.
It’ll be intriguing to watch how Okot integrates into Staley’s system and whether she’ll take on a starting role right away. Regardless of her role, her size and defensive presence are bound to make things more difficult for South Carolina’s opponents next season.
Even with MiLaysia Fulwiley transferring out, the additions of Okot and Ta’Niya Latson position the Gamecocks strongly heading into the new season.
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