I was forced to leave. — MiLaysia Fulwiley Discloses the Heartbreaking Truth About the LSU Tigers and Breaks the Silence on the Startling South Carolina Exit
MiLaysia Fulwiley, a standout guard for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has made a significant move in her collegiate basketball career by transferring to LSU. This decision has sent ripples through the women’s college basketball landscape, especially considering the intense rivalry between the two Southeastern Conference (SEC) programs.(New York Post)
Fulwiley, a 5-foot-10 guard from Columbia, South Carolina, entered the transfer portal following the Gamecocks’ loss to UConn in the national championship game on April 6, 2025. Despite being a key contributor to South Carolina’s undefeated season and national championship win in 2023-2024, she felt the need for a change. In her sophomore year, Fulwiley earned SEC Sixth Player of the Year honors but expressed a desire for more consistent playing time and a more prominent role on the court. Her decision to transfer was influenced by the arrival of high-scoring guard Ta’Niya Latson and the return of Raven Johnson, which further limited her opportunities at South Carolina .(New York Post, SBNation.com)
After entering the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag, Fulwiley visited only LSU, where she committed to play under head coach Kim Mulkey. Her addition to the Tigers’ roster strengthens an already formidable backcourt featuring Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams. Fulwiley’s dynamic playmaking and scoring ability are expected to complement the Tigers’ offensive strategies as they aim for a Final Four berth in the upcoming season .(SBNation.com, New York Post)
Fulwiley’s transfer to LSU adds a new layer of intensity to the longstanding rivalry between the Gamecocks and the Tigers. Her decision to join LSU, a direct competitor, has been met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. Some view it as a strategic move for her personal development, while others see it as a bold statement in the competitive world of college basketball.(SBNation.com)
The upcoming matchups between South Carolina and LSU are now highly anticipated, with Fulwiley’s presence on the Tigers’ roster adding intrigue and excitement to the rivalry. Both teams are expected to be strong contenders in the SEC, and their meetings will likely have significant implications for conference standings and postseason aspirations.
Fulwiley’s move also brings attention to the evolving landscape of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in college sports. She has secured partnerships with major brands like Under Armour’s Curry Brand and Red Bull, which have been instrumental in building her personal brand. However, LSU’s exclusive partnership with Nike presents a challenge, as it prohibits her from wearing her signature “Butta” shoes during games. Despite this, Fulwiley’s strong NIL presence is expected to continue, and she may find creative ways to navigate the brand restrictions while maintaining her public image .(SBNation.com)
As Fulwiley transitions to LSU, all eyes will be on her performance and development under Coach Mulkey’s guidance. Her decision to leave South Carolina and join a rival program reflects her ambition and desire for growth in her collegiate career. With her talent and determination, Fulwiley is poised to make a significant impact on LSU’s women’s basketball program and continue her journey toward professional aspirations.(SBNation.com, SBNation.com)
