HEARTBREAKING NEWS: Dawn Staley BREAKS SILENCE on MiLaysia Fulwiley’s SHOCKING LSU Move—‘This Was NEVER About Basketball’
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, South Carolina Gamecocks standout MiLaysia Fulwiley has officially transferred to LSU, joining Kim Mulkey’s powerhouse program. The announcement not only blindsided fans but also prompted a rare and deeply emotional public statement from Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley.
“This was never about basketball,” Staley said at a press conference Monday afternoon. “I want people to understand that. MiLaysia is like family. What she needed, what she was searching for—it went beyond what happens on the court.”
Fulwiley, who just completed her freshman year, was a viral sensation from day one. Her dazzling handles, no-look passes, and fearless scoring ability captivated fans and analysts alike. She quickly became a fan favorite and a symbol of South Carolina’s future after helping lead the team to a near-perfect season and a Final Four appearance.
Her departure, especially to an SEC rival like LSU, has left Gamecock Nation reeling.
A Shocking Turn
The news of Fulwiley’s transfer broke just days after the NCAA transfer portal officially opened. While some had speculated that roster movement was possible given South Carolina’s stacked guard rotation, few expected Fulwiley—the hometown hero from Columbia, South Carolina—to be the one to leave.
Even more stunning was her destination: LSU, a team known as much for its flamboyance and controversy as its talent. With Angel Reese declaring for the WNBA Draft and star guard Flau’jae Johnson hinting at a potential return, Fulwiley’s arrival in Baton Rouge signals that Kim Mulkey is reloading fast.
In a social media post, Fulwiley thanked South Carolina fans but offered little insight into her reasons for leaving: “I’ll always love home. Thank you to Coach Staley and the staff for believing in me. But it’s time for a new chapter.”
Staley’s Emotional Response
Dawn Staley, typically guarded when discussing player decisions, spoke candidly in her press conference, making it clear this was a painful moment both professionally and personally.
“When MiLaysia chose us, she chose family,” Staley said, visibly emotional. “We’ve watched her grow up right here in Columbia. I’ve known her since she was in middle school. This hurts. Not because she’s a great player—we’ll always have great players—but because I truly care about her as a person.”
Staley went on to say that she did everything in her power to keep Fulwiley at South Carolina, but ultimately had to respect her decision.
“Sometimes, it’s about more than basketball. Sometimes it’s about identity, about finding your own spotlight. I get it. I don’t agree with it, but I get it.”
Behind the Scenes Tension?
Speculation has swirled that Fulwiley may have grown frustrated with her role on a team loaded with talent. While she was a key contributor, she often came off the bench behind veterans like Te-Hina Paopao and Raven Johnson. Sources close to the program suggest that Fulwiley wanted a bigger role—one that LSU may have promised outright.
Kim Mulkey, known for aggressively recruiting high-profile transfers, reportedly had been in contact with Fulwiley’s camp the moment the portal opened. Some insiders believe NIL opportunities and a more “free-flowing” offensive system played a role in her decision.
An SEC assistant coach, speaking anonymously, described it as a “strategic coup” for LSU.
“MiLaysia is a game-changer. LSU just stole a future superstar. Staley built her program on culture and loyalty, but Mulkey knows how to win the portal.”
Fan Reaction: Heartbreak and Anger
South Carolina fans reacted with a mix of heartbreak, confusion, and frustration. Many flooded social media with thank-you messages to Fulwiley, while others accused her of chasing fame or money. A few even turned their criticism toward Mulkey, suggesting the LSU coach is creating a “mercenary program” with no real loyalty or continuity.
“Disappointed but grateful for the memories,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “She was one of us. That’s what hurts the most.”
Some took a more optimistic tone, trusting in Staley’s ability to reload and adapt.
“She’s built a dynasty. This won’t stop us,” another fan tweeted. “We’ll be fine. It’s MiLaysia who’s walking away from something special.”
What This Means for South Carolina and LSU
For South Carolina, the loss of Fulwiley is significant, but not necessarily catastrophic. With another strong recruiting class and returning talent, the Gamecocks will still be title contenders. However, the emotional toll—especially for a coach as deeply invested in her players as Staley—is considerable.
“This challenges everything we’re trying to build here,” Staley admitted. “We preach family, we preach loyalty. But we’re also in a new era. NIL, the portal—it’s all changing. We have to change with it.”
For LSU, this move solidifies their status as the most polarizing team in women’s college basketball. Mulkey’s program continues to draw attention—both praise and criticism—for its bold moves and big personalities. With Fulwiley in the mix, LSU may once again become must-watch TV.
Looking Ahead
MiLaysia Fulwiley will suit up in purple and gold next season, and the anticipation for the first South Carolina-LSU showdown will be immense. The rivalry, already one of the fiercest in the SEC, just got personal.
Staley, for her part, left the door open for reconciliation, but not regret.
“I’ll always root for MiLaysia as a person. That won’t change. But we’re moving forward. South Carolina women’s basketball is bigger than any one player.”
In a world where loyalty is increasingly rare and player movement is constant, this saga is a stark reminder of how personal college sports can still be. For Staley, Fulwiley, and Gamecock fans ev
erywhere, this wasn’t just about basketball—it was about heart.