Was Dawn Staley Holding Her Back? The Numbers Say Otherwise 👀

MiLaysia Fulwiley is in the transfer portal — and fans are SHOCKED. But before we jump to conclusions, let’s talk about what the stats actually say and whether the narrative around her usage at South Carolina really holds up.

MiLaysia Fulwiley Sends Clear Message to Dawn Staley, South Carolina After Transfer

Former South Carolina Gamecocks star MiLaysia Fulwiley addressed her decision to transfer with a recent Instagram post.

Apr 4, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley talks with guard MiLaysia Fulwiley (12) during the first half in a semifinal of the women’s 2025 NCAA tournament against the Texas Longhorns at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

An April 11 report that former South Carolina Gamecocks star guard MiLaysia Fulwiley was entering the NCAA transfer portal after spending two seasons playing for Dawn Staley stunned the women’s college basketball world.

While many fans had been discussing the potential of Fulwiley transferring for much of the 2024-25 season because she wasn’t in the starting rotation and wasn’t getting the minutes many thought she deserved, there was no clear indication that Fulwiley was discontent with her situation until this portal news was released.

Despite a lot of discussion from reporters and women’s college basketball fans in the past week or so, one person who hadn’t spoken about this transfer decision was Fulwiley. But that changed on April 17 when she officially announced her transfer with an Instagram post.

The post wrote, “I want to begin by thanking my hometown of Columbia, SC. Without my village, I wouldn’t be where I am today, chasing my dreams. Thank you to Coach Staley, the entire South Carolina staff, and my teammates for the unforgettable memories we’ve created together. Thank you to the FAMS for embracing me and supporting me over the past two years.

“After thoughtful consideration, I’ve decided to enter the transfer portal. I’m excited for what’s next and grateful for the continued love and support.”

It will be fascinating to see where Fulwiley ends up next season, and her decision regarding her next program will likely be announced relatively soon. Until then, speculation about her future is sure to continue.