ESPN REPORT: As South Carolina women’s basketball guard MiLaysia Fulwiley enters the transfer portal, she sends a poignant farewell message to the team, leaving fans in tears.

The world of college basketball has seen its fair share of emotional moments, but few can rival the outpouring of love and gratitude expressed when MiLaysia Fulwiley, the standout guard for South Carolina’s women’s basketball team, entered the transfer portal in April 2025. The decision, while not entirely unexpected, caught fans and fellow players alike by surprise, leaving an emotional void at one of the most celebrated programs in women’s college basketball.

Fulwiley’s departure came after two impactful seasons at South Carolina, a period that saw her play an essential role in the team’s success. During her time as a Gamecock, she helped the team secure two SEC titles, reach a Final Four, and, most notably, win the national championship. But despite her on-court success, Fulwiley’s personal journey has been a tumultuous one, with moments of triumph, growth, and, unfortunately, personal challenge, leading her to ultimately decide that a new opportunity was the best path forward.

In her farewell message, Fulwiley took the time to reflect on her experience with the team, expressing deep gratitude for the coaching staff, her teammates, and the South Carolina community that supported her throughout her career. For many, her message was not just a goodbye—it was a thank you, a tribute to the place that helped shape her into the player and person she had become. As her words echoed through social media and among her fan base, tears were shed, and an overwhelming sense of pride and appreciation filled the air.

A Rising Star

MiLaysia Fulwiley’s journey to South Carolina was nothing short of a fairy tale. Growing up in Columbia, South Carolina, she was already a familiar name within the state’s high school basketball circles. Playing for Keenan High School, Fulwiley was a four-time state champion, showcasing her ability to perform at the highest level early on. Her versatility, leadership, and determination on the court earned her numerous accolades, including a spot on several All-State teams, making her one of the most highly recruited players in the nation.

Her decision to play for the University of South Carolina, however, carried with it a deep sense of personal significance. Not only was she joining one of the most prestigious programs in women’s basketball, but she was also doing so in her hometown, representing a community that had supported her every step of the way. The pressure to succeed was immense, but Fulwiley rose to the occasion, cementing her place as one of the brightest young stars in the sport.

Her freshman year was a revelation. Coming off the bench, she proved to be an immediate impact player, showcasing her scoring ability, athleticism, and defensive tenacity. Her play earned her SEC Sixth Woman of the Year honors and helped solidify her position as a key player for the Gamecocks. But it wasn’t just her stats that made her stand out—it was her attitude and work ethic, qualities that endeared her to her teammates and coaches alike.

In her sophomore season, Fulwiley became a fixture in the starting lineup, playing a pivotal role in the Gamecocks’ quest for a national title. Her tenacity on defense, ability to create scoring opportunities, and leadership on the floor made her an invaluable asset to the team. By the end of the season, Fulwiley had solidified her status as one of the top players in the SEC, earning second-team All-SEC honors and helping South Carolina capture another SEC Championship.

But despite the success on the court, there were growing pains. Like many young players, Fulwiley had moments where her performance dipped, and she had to grapple with adjusting to a more prominent role. As the season wore on, her playing time began to fluctuate, a factor that ultimately led to her decision to enter the transfer portal. It wasn’t just about playing time—it was about finding an environment that would allow her to continue to grow, both as a player and as a person.

The Decision to Leave

Fulwiley’s decision to enter the transfer portal was met with mixed emotions. On one hand, her departure came as a natural part of her career progression—she had accomplished a great deal at South Carolina, but perhaps the time had come for a new challenge. On the other hand, for fans and teammates who had grown attached to her, the news was hard to swallow.

In her farewell message, Fulwiley spoke of her deep appreciation for the people she met during her time at South Carolina. She credited her coaches for helping shape her basketball IQ and pushing her to be the best version of herself, both on and off the court. Her bond with her teammates was also a central theme in her message, as she reflected on the friendships that had developed and the shared experiences that would remain with her forever.

“This place helped me grow into myself,” Fulwiley said in her farewell. “I was a child when I got here. I had a lot to learn about what it takes to be a great player and a great teammate. I’m leaving as a woman, and I owe so much of that growth to everyone at South Carolina—my coaches, my teammates, and this incredible fanbase.”

Her words struck a chord with many, particularly her teammates, who praised her leadership and the example she set for others. “She’s been such an inspiration to me and so many others,” said a fellow Gamecocks player. “Her work ethic and the way she carried herself every day were things we all looked up to. It’s tough to see her go, but we know she’s destined for great things.”

A Tearful Farewell to South Carolina Fans

Perhaps no one felt Fulwiley’s departure more than the fans of South Carolina women’s basketball. The Gamecocks have one of the most passionate and loyal fan bases in all of college sports, and Fulwiley quickly became one of their favorites. Her dynamic play on the court, her ability to light up the scoreboard, and her infectious energy made her an instant fan favorite.

In the wake of her announcement, fans flooded social media with messages of support, reminiscing about her unforgettable moments and expressing their gratitude for her contributions to the program. Some shared personal stories of how Fulwiley had inspired them, while others simply posted messages of love and encouragement. “You’ll always be a Gamecock,” one fan wrote. “Thank you for everything you gave to this team and this community. You’ll be missed more than words can say.”

Others took to Twitter to share their favorite moments from Fulwiley’s time at South Carolina. From her buzzer-beating shots to her clutch plays in the NCAA tournament, there was no shortage of highlights that will forever be etched in the memories of Gamecocks fans. For many, Fulwiley had become a symbol of the program’s rise to prominence, a representative of everything that makes South Carolina women’s basketball so special.

“Thank you, MiLaysia,” another fan tweeted. “You’ll forever be a part of this family.”

The Future Ahead: New Opportunities Await

As MiLaysia Fulwiley looks toward the future, the next chapter in her career is uncertain but filled with possibilities. The transfer portal has become a regular part of college athletics, offering players the chance to explore new environments and opportunities. For Fulwiley, the decision to leave South Carolina was about finding a place where she could continue to evolve as a player and as a person.

There’s little doubt that Fulwiley will have no shortage of suitors. Her talent and leadership are undeniable, and her performance in the SEC and NCAA tournaments has made her one of the most sought-after transfers in the country. Schools like Ole Miss, Louisville, Clemson, and Maryland have already expressed interest in bringing her on board, each with unique benefits that could help her further her basketball career. Whether she’s looking for a more prominent role or a new challenge, Fulwiley will have many options to consider as she moves forward.

For Fulwiley, the sky is the limit. With her blend of skills, work ethic, and determination, she is poised to make an impact wherever she goes. And while her time at South Carolina may have come to an end, her legacy there will last a lifetime. Fans will remember her as one of the players who helped build the Gamecocks into a national powerhouse, and they’ll continue to support her as she pursues her dreams on the next stage of her journey.

 A Legacy of Growth and Gratitude

MiLaysia Fulwiley’s departure from South Carolina marks the end of a significant chapter in both her life and the history of Gamecocks women’s basketball. Her time at South Carolina will forever be remembered as a period of success, growth, and personal development.

While her decision to leave the program may have been difficult for both her and her supporters, it represents the next step in her basketball journey—one that promises to be filled with new challenges, opportunities, and triumphs. Her farewell message to the Gamecocks community encapsulated everything that made her such a beloved figure in Columbia: gratitude, humility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

As she embarks on her next adventure, there is no doubt that MiLaysia Fulwiley will continue to inspire and make an impact wherever she goes. Her legacy as a player, leader, and person will remain a testament to the remarkable journey she undertook at South Carolina.