A comprehensive look at how former South Carolina players are performing after transferring to new programs reveals varying degrees of success and challenges.
Sakima Walker (California Golden Bears)
Statistics: 25 games (25 starts), 12.0 ppg, 6.5 rpg, 1.7 bpg, 1.2 apg, .559 FG%
Walker has emerged as a pillar of consistency for California, earning the distinction of being the only player to start all 25 games and one of just four players to appear in every contest. Her production places her as the Bears’ second-leading scorer and rebounder.
Walker’s journey represents patience rewarded. She sacrificed immediate playing time to remain with the Gamecocks for two seasons, developing within the program’s championship culture. With an extra season of eligibility available, she’s capitalizing on the opportunity and showcasing the value of her South Carolina experience.
Sahnya Jah (Arizona → SMU)
Statistics: 19 games (6 starts), 9.3 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 1.2 spg
Jah’s post-South Carolina career has been marked by instability and disciplinary issues. She was suspended midway through her freshman season at South Carolina in 2024, prompting her initial transfer to Arizona. When head coach Adia Barnes moved to SMU during the offseason, Jah followed.
While she’s posting career-high numbers in points and rebounds this season, consistency remains elusive. Jah faced another suspension last season and has missed multiple games this season for undisclosed reasons. Her situation is further complicated by SMU’s struggles—the Mustangs rank among the worst power conference teams nationally.
Talaysia Cooper (Tennessee Lady Volunteers)
Statistics: 20 games (17 starts), 14.6 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 4.0 apg, 3.0 spg, .339 3P%
Cooper’s departure from South Carolina came when the roster crunch intensified following the addition of Te-Hina Paopao during the 2023 offseason. Her decision to transfer after the window closed meant sitting out her first season at Tennessee—a sacrifice that has proven worthwhile.
Cooper has been Tennessee’s leading scorer in both of her active seasons with the program. Her all-around game has meshed seamlessly with Kim Caldwell’s system, and this year she’s also emerged as the Lady Vols’ top three-point shooter. Her versatility has made her indispensable to Tennessee’s offensive scheme.
MiLaysia Fulwiley (LSU Tigers)
Statistics: 25 games (1 start), 13.4 ppg, 3.6 apg, 3.5 rpg, 3.2 spg
Fulwiley’s transfer to LSU generated the most controversy among South Carolina departures. The narrative surrounding her move suggested that head coach Kim Mulkey and the LSU system would unleash her full potential.
Operating at point guard, Fulwiley posted impressive statistics against LSU’s non-competitive nonconference schedule. However, the true test has come in SEC play, where LSU has essentially been eliminated from the conference title race—a disappointing development, though Mulkey’s focus remains fixed on NCAA tournament success rather than regular-season accolades.
Analysis: These four transfers illustrate the varied outcomes when players leave championship programs. Walker found her opportunity and seized it with consistency. Cooper navigated the waiting period and became a star. Jah continues struggling with off-court issues despite improved production. Fulwiley’s story is still being written, with questions about whether the statistical success against weaker competition will translate to meaningful postseason impact.
