South Carolina sports have been on an exciting and transformative journey this year. As the Gamecocks continue to make strides in football, basketball, and beyond, two key events have stood out. The commitment of standout basketball recruit MiLaysia Fulwiley to LSU has been a significant moment for South Carolina’s women’s basketball program, while the impressive showing of five Gamecocks being drafted into the NFL has highlighted the continued success and development of the football program. This article dives into both events, providing a deep analysis of their implications for South Carolina athletics, the state of competition, and the future of the players involved.
MiLaysia Fulwiley’s Commitment to LSU
MiLaysia Fulwiley is one of the most highly touted recruits in the country, a standout guard whose skill set has been lauded by coaches, scouts, and analysts alike. Her decision to commit to LSU over South Carolina came as a surprise to many, given the Gamecocks’ reputation for building one of the most formidable women’s basketball programs in the nation.
Fulwiley’s commitment to LSU is a blow for the Gamecocks but also a testament to the level of competition within the SEC, a conference known for producing elite talent year after year. For South Carolina, this marks a turning point, as they were hoping to build upon their recruiting successes, particularly in light of their national championship win and continued dominance in the NCAA tournament.
Fulwiley’s playing style is characterized by her quickness, agility, and a level of court vision that allows her to create opportunities for herself and her teammates. As a multi-dimensional player, she is capable of scoring, distributing the ball, and defending at a high level. She brings the kind of versatility that can change the game for LSU, a team already on the rise under the leadership of head coach Kim Mulkey.
South Carolina, however, is no stranger to bouncing back from losses in the recruiting wars. Under head coach Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks have continued to build one of the most successful women’s basketball programs in the country. While losing a player like Fulwiley may be a setback, it is unlikely to derail the program’s trajectory, considering the recruiting pipeline Staley has cultivated. In fact, South Carolina’s commitment to developing elite talent and fostering team-oriented play remains unchanged.
Fulwiley’s decision to choose LSU is a strong reflection of the growing competition between South Carolina and LSU in women’s basketball. Both programs have been at the top of the national conversation, and the rivalry between them only looks set to intensify in the coming seasons.
Five Gamecocks Picked in NFL Draft
On the other side of South Carolina athletics, the football program received a major boost with five Gamecocks being selected in the NFL Draft. This represents a significant achievement, as South Carolina continues to solidify itself as a breeding ground for NFL talent. The Gamecocks’ five draftees mark a testament to the growth of their football program under head coach Shane Beamer, who has worked hard to recruit and develop talent capable of succeeding at the highest level.
The Gamecocks’ five NFL Draft selections this year underscore the program’s evolving status as a top contender in the SEC, a conference renowned for its physicality and talent. Let’s take a closer look at the five players and the impact they will have at the next level.
- Zacch Pickens – Defensive Tackle
Zacch Pickens, a standout defensive tackle, was one of the first Gamecocks selected in the 2025 NFL Draft. Pickens was a dominant force on the line for South Carolina throughout his career. Known for his combination of size, strength, and agility, Pickens became a force to be reckoned with in the SEC. His selection in the draft is not only a personal accomplishment but also a testament to the Gamecocks’ ability to develop players capable of excelling at the professional level.
Pickens’ style of play, focused on disrupting the offensive line, makes him an ideal fit for a 4-3 defense. His leadership on and off the field was a major asset to the Gamecocks, and he will no doubt be looking to carry that same intensity into his NFL career.
- Jordan Burch – Edge Rusher
Another key member of the Gamecocks’ defense, Jordan Burch, was picked up in the NFL Draft for his ability to generate pressure on the quarterback. A versatile edge rusher with a high motor, Burch consistently disrupted opposing offenses with his relentless pursuit and ability to force turnovers. Burch’s physical attributes, combined with his relentless drive, have made him a standout player throughout his time at South Carolina. His ability to make an immediate impact in the NFL is highly anticipated.
- Cam Smith – Cornerback
Cam Smith, a cornerback with excellent coverage skills and ball-hawking ability, was another Gamecock selected in the NFL Draft. Smith’s combination of speed, agility, and intelligence made him a nightmare for SEC quarterbacks. His ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and jump routes gave him several opportunities to generate interceptions, and he was known for his consistency in coverage. Smith’s smooth technique and understanding of offensive schemes will serve him well at the next level.
- JuJu McDowell – Running Back
JuJu McDowell, a dynamic running back, was also selected during the draft. Known for his speed and elusive running style, McDowell proved to be a versatile weapon for the Gamecocks. His ability to contribute both in the run game and as a receiving option out of the backfield makes him an intriguing prospect. While he may not have the traditional size of a feature back, his quickness and vision set him apart. McDowell has the potential to carve out a role as a change-of-pace back in the NFL, capable of providing a spark when needed.
- Akeem Jordan – Offensive Tackle
Akeem Jordan, a powerful offensive tackle, was selected for his work in anchoring South Carolina’s offensive line. Known for his size and technique, Jordan consistently played at a high level in the SEC. As an offensive lineman, his job was to protect the quarterback and open holes for the running game, and he did both with remarkable consistency. Jordan’s solid fundamentals and elite strength should help him make an impact at the next level, especially in a run-heavy offense.
The Impact of These Selections
South Carolina’s impressive showing in the NFL Draft speaks volumes about the progress of their football program. The five Gamecocks selected not only represent the ongoing development of top-tier talent at South Carolina but also underscore the growing recognition of the program’s ability to compete at the highest levels. As each of these players heads to the NFL, they bring with them the lessons learned in the SEC, the culture of hard work instilled by their coaches, and the desire to prove themselves at the professional level.
For head coach Shane Beamer, the selection of five players is a validation of the program’s direction. Beamer’s recruiting efforts have paid off, as he continues to build a team capable of competing with the SEC’s best. South Carolina’s success in producing NFL talent further solidifies its standing as a program to watch in the years to come.
Looking Ahead
While MiLaysia Fulwiley’s commitment to LSU and the five Gamecocks drafted into the NFL are significant moments in their respective sports, they are also a part of a larger trend. Both South Carolina football and basketball programs are on the rise, and these events are only the latest chapters in a story of sustained excellence.
For the women’s basketball program, while losing Fulwiley is a blow, the Gamecocks have an elite coaching staff in place and a strong pipeline of talent. Dawn Staley’s ability to attract top players and develop them into national champions has put the program in an excellent position for continued success, and it’s only a matter of time before another star steps into the spotlight.
In football, South Carolina’s ability to send multiple players to the NFL demonstrates the growing depth and talent within the program. Beamer’s leadership will be key in keeping this momentum going, and the future looks bright for the Gamecocks as they look to build on this year’s success.
From MiLaysia Fulwiley’s decision to join LSU to the impressive showing of five Gamecocks in the NFL Draft, South Carolina athletics is making waves. These developments, while significant in their own right, are part of a broader narrative of growth, competition, and success. Whether in women’s basketball or football, South Carolina is proving to be a force to be reckoned with, setting the stage for continued excellence in the years to come. As fans of the Gamecocks look ahead, they can be confident that the future remains bright, with plenty of talent waiting to be developed and showcased on the biggest stages.
