The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team had an impressive 2024-25 season, but one recurring critique of their roster was the absence of a dominant post player.
This gap was especially noticeable when compared to the elite frontcourt talent the Gamecocks have had in recent years, including Aliyah Boston—now a star with the Indiana Fever and the top pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft—and Kamilla Cardoso, who went third overall to the Chicago Sky in 2024. Although this lack of a strong interior presence didn’t stop South Carolina from reaching the 2025 national championship game, it was a clear disadvantage in their matchup against UConn.
Recognizing this need, head coach Dawn Staley and her staff prioritized adding size during the offseason—and they made a significant move on Monday. Former Mississippi State center Madina Okot, who stands 6-foot-6, has committed to join the Gamecocks.
Okot, a rising senior, posted averages of 11.3 points and 9.6 rebounds per game last season with the Bulldogs. In a January 5 loss to South Carolina (95-68), she managed 4 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 blocks.
It will be interesting to see how Okot integrates into the Gamecocks’ system and whether she steps into a starting role right away. Either way, her addition gives South Carolina valuable size in the paint that will be a challenge for opponents to handle.
Despite losing MiLaysia Fulwiley to the transfer portal, the Gamecocks scored big by landing both Okot and Ta’Niya Latson—setting themselves up well for another strong season.
