A pivotal player for South Carolina's women's basketball team over the past two seasons, MiLaysia Fulwiley, is reportedly considering her future elsewhere. According to sources close to ESPN, Fulwiley has decided to enter the transfer portal. Known for her exceptional contributions both on and off the court, this move marks a significant chapter in her collegiate career. As a standout guard, Fulwiley was instrumental in leading the Gamecocks to a perfect season and national championship last year, earning accolades such as SEC Tournament MVP as a freshman. This season, she continued to shine as the SEC Sixth Player of the Year, despite coming off the bench for most games.
MiLaysia Fulwiley, who hails from Columbia, South Carolina, initially chose to play college basketball close to home, where she quickly became a fan favorite. Ranked as the 13th best recruit by ESPN HoopGurlz in 2023, her decision to stay local seemed like a perfect fit at first glance. Her debut season with the Gamecocks was nothing short of spectacular, helping them achieve an undefeated record and claim the national title. Fulwiley’s performance earned her the prestigious SEC Tournament MVP award, solidifying her reputation as one of the top rookies in the league.
This academic year, despite playing primarily as a reserve, Fulwiley demonstrated remarkable consistency and versatility. Standing at 5-foot-10, she averaged 11.7 points per game while contributing significantly in other areas of the game. Over her 77-game tenure with South Carolina, she also accumulated averages of 2.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per contest. The Gamecocks once again dominated under her guidance, finishing with a 35-4 record, securing another SEC tournament victory, and advancing all the way to the national finals before falling to UConn.
While Fulwiley's impact on the court cannot be overstated, her decision to explore other opportunities may reflect broader aspirations or a desire for new challenges. Local media outlets, including The Greenville News, were among the first to report her intention to join the NCAA transfer portal. As she embarks on this next phase of her journey, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which program gains the services of this talented athlete.
As Fulwiley contemplates her future, it is clear that her legacy at South Carolina will endure long after her departure. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the Gamecocks' recent successes, and her potential to elevate any program she joins remains undeniable. The coming weeks will undoubtedly bring further clarity regarding her plans and the next destination for this accomplished guard.