South Carolina Gamecocks Shine Bright, Win Gold and Silver at 2025 FIBA AmeriCup With Stellar International Performances

The dominance of the South Carolina women’s basketball program was felt far beyond the borders of the United States this summer, as two of its brightest stars captured international glory on the hardwood at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup. Representing their respective countries with pride, the Gamecocks returned from the prestigious tournament draped in gold and silver — further cementing Dawn Staley’s program as not only an NCAA powerhouse, but also a wellspring of global talent.

Rising junior guard MiLaysia Fulwiley was a headliner for Team USA, dazzling fans with her trademark handles, lightning-fast court vision, and scoring bursts en route to a gold-medal run. On the other side of the medal spectrum, Gamecocks forward Chloe Kitts suited up for Puerto Rico and helped lead her squad to a silver medal in a performance that drew widespread admiration for her versatility, toughness, and elevated leadership.

The 2025 AmeriCup served as a major showcase for women’s basketball in the Americas, drawing top collegiate and professional talent from across North, Central, and South America. For the South Carolina duo, the stakes were high — but so was their impact.

Fulwiley, fresh off announcing her return to Columbia for her junior season, embraced the challenge of international play with the poise of a seasoned veteran. She averaged 14.3 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.2 steals per game, sparking the U.S. offense with her quick first step and unmatched creativity. Whether orchestrating in transition or creating separation off the dribble in the halfcourt, Fulwiley made it clear she belonged on the global stage. Her standout performance in the gold medal game — a 17-point, 5-assist showing against Puerto Rico — helped propel Team USA to an 82-66 victory, earning her a place on the All-Tournament Team.

Fulwiley’s flair was complemented by her steadiness. She limited turnovers, controlled tempo, and showcased improved decision-making — qualities that Gamecocks fans will be thrilled to see back in action at Colonial Life Arena this fall. For head coach Dawn Staley, a three-time Olympic gold medalist herself, watching her protégé take command in international competition must have been a full-circle moment. Staley has long emphasized not just talent development, but preparation for the global game. Fulwiley’s AmeriCup performance reflected both.

On the opposite side of the court, Kitts took a different but equally impressive path to the podium. Having joined the Puerto Rican national team earlier in the year thanks to her heritage and dual eligibility, Kitts was a revelation in her debut international tournament. Often tasked with guarding opposing bigs and anchoring the paint, Kitts embraced the physicality of international play while still bringing her signature finesse. She posted averages of 11.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game — including a 13-point, 10-rebound double-double in the semifinal win over Brazil that sent Puerto Rico to its first-ever gold medal game.

Though Puerto Rico ultimately fell short in the championship game against Team USA, the silver medal was historic for the island nation — and Kitts was right in the middle of the celebration. Her size, strength, and ability to stretch the floor were difference-makers for a Puerto Rican team that exceeded expectations. More importantly, her voice within the locker room reportedly grew louder with each passing game, signaling a maturation that will pay major dividends for the Gamecocks when SEC play resumes.

The dual-medal success at the 2025 AmeriCup was more than just a feel-good story for South Carolina fans. It was a tangible reflection of the global reach and elite culture that Dawn Staley has cultivated in Columbia. Her players are not only prepared to succeed on the biggest NCAA stages but also under the bright lights of international competition. That’s a powerful recruiting pitch — and one that’s backed by gold and silver.

For Fulwiley, the experience could be a launching pad toward a monster junior season. Already a fan favorite and one of the most exciting guards in college basketball, she now returns with a bolstered resume and the confidence that comes from leading a team to the top of the podium. Her chemistry with fellow returning stars and newcomers alike will be something to watch as the Gamecocks look to defend their SEC crown and contend for yet another Final Four run.

Kitts, meanwhile, may emerge as one of the program’s most improved players in the upcoming season. After showing flashes of brilliance in her first two years under Staley, the AmeriCup spotlight gave her the stage — and the responsibility — to perform with consistency and resilience. Her ability to play both forward spots, rebound in traffic, and defend in space gives South Carolina a unique weapon in their frontcourt arsenal.

The Gamecocks’ dual AmeriCup success also sends a broader message about the power of development within the program. Both Fulwiley and Kitts arrived in Columbia with promise. Under the guidance of Staley and her staff, that promise has blossomed into podium-level performance against some of the best international players in the world.

Even more remarkable is that neither Fulwiley nor Kitts is a senior. Their best basketball may still be ahead of them — both at the collegiate and international levels. And as they return to campus this fall, they bring not only medals but wisdom, toughness, and invaluable experience that will ripple through the locker room.

For the fans, it’s another chapter in what has become a golden era of South Carolina women’s basketball. From national championships to WNBA draft picks to international triumphs, the Gamecocks continue to set the standard — and then raise it. The AmeriCup medals won by Fulwiley and Kitts aren’t just rewards for a job well done; they’re signals of where this program is headed next.

The 2025-26 season already carried high expectations in Columbia, but now it comes with even more intrigue. With Fulwiley playing like a world-class guard and Kitts proving she can lead on the biggest stages, South Carolina enters the fall with a roster full of experience, ambition, and international shine.

As FIBA flags were raised and anthems played in celebration of gold and silver, Gamecock Nation watched with pride. Their stars didn’t just show up — they showed out. The world is starting to take notice of what fans in Columbia have long known: South Carolina women’s basketball isn’t just elite — it’s global.