MiLaysia Fulwiley, a breakout star and hometown hero, plans to enter the transfer portal despite a standout sophomore season.
South Carolina is on the verge of losing one of its brightest young stars, as sophomore guard MiLaysia Fulwiley is expected to enter the NCAA transfer portal, according to multiple sources. The move comes as a surprise to fans who watched the Columbia native blossom into one of the most electrifying players in women’s college basketball.
Fulwiley, a five-star recruit and local sensation, played a crucial role off the bench this season for the Gamecocks, averaging 11.7 points per game-second-most on the team. Known for her creative ball-handling and explosive scoring, she earned SEC Sixth Player of the Year honors and helped lead South Carolina to the national championship game against UConn.
Breaking: MiLaysia Fulwiley, a key guard for South Carolina's Final Four women's basketball teams the past two seasons, intends to enter the transfer portal, sources told Michael Voepel.
The Greenville News was first to report the news. pic.twitter.com/mOZCzP7gZw
— ESPN (@espn) April 11, 2025
Crowded backcourt may have influenced decision
The timing of Fulwiley’s potential departure has raised questions about South Carolina’s shifting roster dynamics. Just days ago, former Florida State star Ta’Niya Latson announced her commitment to South Carolina, joining a backcourt that already includes returning starter Raven Johnson. With minutes and roles in flux, Fulwiley’s path to a larger spotlight may have become less clear.
In a season where she logged just under 19 minutes per game, Fulwiley still managed to shine. She posted 23 points in a Sweet 16 win over Maryland and notched a season-high 24 points against Vanderbilt. Despite limited playing time, she shot over 42% from the field and proved to be a spark plug whenever she was on the floor.
From hometown hero to national name
A graduate of Keenan High School in Columbia, Fulwiley was hailed as the next A’ja Wilson when she chose to stay home and commit to the Gamecocks. She made history this year as the first freshman in program history to win SEC Tournament MVP after scoring 24 points in the title game against LSU.
Her star continued to rise off the court as well, becoming the first college athlete to sign with Curry Brand, Steph Curry’s signature line. She even debuted two custom sneakers with the company during the season.
While she hasn’t made a public statement yet, her potential transfer marks a major shake-up for Dawn Staley’s squad-and a big opportunity for whatever program lands one of the NCAA’s most exciting young guards.
