MiLaysia Fulwiley enters the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag, hinting she already knows her next move after leaving South Carolina

MiLaysia Fulwiley enters the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag, hinting she already knows her next move after leaving South Carolina

MiLaysia Fulwiley, a standout guard for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has entered the NCAA transfer portal with a “do not contact” designation, signaling that she likely has a destination in mind and is not open to recruitment from other programs. This move has stirred significant discussion in the women’s college basketball community, given Fulwiley’s impressive performance and potential.​

Fulwiley, a Columbia, South Carolina native, was a five-star recruit and ranked No. 13 in ESPN’s HoopGurlz rankings for the class of 2023. She committed to South Carolina, drawn by Coach Dawn Staley’s straightforward recruitment approach and the program’s reputation for developing WNBA talent. ​SportskeedaSI+1Sportskeeda+1

In her freshman year, Fulwiley made an immediate impact, averaging 11.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. She was named SEC Tournament MVP after scoring a season-high 24 points in the final against LSU. ​Wikipedia+1SBNation.com+1

During her sophomore season, she maintained similar statistics, averaging 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. Despite her contributions, Fulwiley often came off the bench, averaging 18.9 minutes per game, and was recognized as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year. ​Reuters+1SBNation.com+1

Several factors may have influenced Fulwiley’s decision to transfer:​

• Playing Time: Despite her talent, Fulwiley’s minutes remained limited, and she did not start any games in her sophomore season. The arrival of high-scoring transfer Ta’Niya Latson from Florida State could further impact her playing time. ​SBNation.com+1Swish Appeal+1

• Desire for a Leading Role: Fulwiley’s skills suggest she could be a starting guard and primary scorer on many teams. Transferring could provide her with an opportunity to take on a more prominent role.​SBNation.com

• Professional Aspirations: With NIL deals from Under Armour and Red Bull, Fulwiley is building her brand and may seek a program that offers greater exposure and development opportunities to prepare for a future WNBA career. ​SBNation.com

While Fulwiley’s “do not contact” status indicates she has a destination in mind, several programs have been speculated as potential fits:​

• Ole Miss: Known for its dynamic guard play and recent success in the SEC, Ole Miss could offer Fulwiley a starting role and a system that suits her style.​SI+3SBNation.com+3ABC Columbia+3

• Louisville: With a strong basketball tradition and need for backcourt talent, Louisville could provide a platform for Fulwiley to shine.​

• Clemson: Staying in-state, Clemson might appeal to Fulwiley for its proximity to home and the opportunity to be the centerpiece of the program.​

• Maryland: A program with a history of developing guards and a strong presence in the Big Ten, Maryland could be an attractive option.​

• Notre Dame: With a storied history and a need for dynamic guards, Notre Dame could offer Fulwiley both exposure and development. ​

Fulwiley’s departure is a significant loss for South Carolina. However, the program has been active in the transfer portal, adding top scorer Ta’Niya Latson and 6-foot-6 center Madina Okot to bolster the roster. ​Swish Appeal+1SBNation.com+1

Coach Dawn Staley has addressed transfer speculations in the past, emphasizing trust and the process within the program. The Gamecocks will look to integrate their new additions and continue their success in the upcoming season.​SI