In a stunning shift that has sent ripples through women’s college basketball, South Carolina star guard MiLaysia Fulwiley has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal. Her decision to leave the Gamecocks, a program she helped lead to national prominence, signals more than just a change in teams—it’s a statement about her personal goals, development, and how she envisions the next step in her basketball journey.
Fulwiley, a homegrown talent from Columbia, South Carolina, arrived at USC as one of the nation’s most electrifying high school prospects. Known for her flashy handles, fearless scoring ability, and court vision, she was celebrated not only for her skill but also for her deep connection to her hometown and university. In her freshman season, she played a key role in helping Dawn Staley’s squad capture a national championship, earning national recognition as a rising star.
However, Fulwiley’s sophomore year didn’t unfold as expected. While she was honored as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year and earned All-SEC Second Team recognition, her minutes were limited in several critical games. Most notably, she played just three minutes in South Carolina’s surprising loss to UCLA—an absence that raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. Many questioned why one of the team’s most dynamic players wasn’t given a larger role on such a big stage.
Behind the scenes, head coach Dawn Staley praised Fulwiley’s growth, highlighting her maturity and willingness to learn. Staley noted that Fulwiley was embracing coaching, working to refine her fundamentals and add discipline to her game. Still, the balance between coaching and allowing her to fully unleash her creativity on the court seemed to remain a challenge.
Fulwiley’s decision to enter the transfer portal didn’t come with a dramatic public statement, but it sent a powerful message nonetheless: she’s ready for more. Whether it was about playing time, fit within the system, or simply a desire to showcase her full abilities in a different environment, Fulwiley made it clear that she’s looking for a program where she can be a centerpiece, not a secondary option.
Fans quickly reacted, many voicing their support and urging her to find a school that will let her shine. Rumors have already linked her to several top programs, including Louisville, Maryland, Clemson, and Notre Dame—all schools where she could step into a leadership role and receive the freedom to play her natural style.
While her departure is undoubtedly a loss for South Carolina, it also underscores how difficult it can be for top-tier talent to thrive in crowded, star-studded lineups. For Fulwiley, the move could be the catalyst that helps her unlock her full potential, both in college and beyond.
In the end, MiLaysia Fulwiley’s exit from South Carolina marks more than a transfer—it’s a declaration. She’s ready to take control of her future, and wherever she lands next, expect her to make an immediate and electrifying impact.
