In a revealing appearance on the Get Gordon podcast, LSU guard MiLaysia Fulwiley provided rare insight into her experience playing for two national championship coaches, offering a candid comparison between her former coach Dawn Staley at South Carolina and current coach Kim Mulkey at LSU.
“Kim is Crazy… She’s More Passionate”
Fulwiley didn’t hold back when describing Mulkey’s coaching style, though she quickly clarified her characterization.
“Kim is Crazy, oh Not crazy… she’s more passionate I can say, like all time. A crazy passion like all time,” Fulwiley explained during the podcast.
The former South Carolina star’s word choice—moving from “crazy” to “passionate”—reveals the intensity that defines Mulkey’s approach to coaching. This unfiltered assessment provides a window into the LSU program’s culture under a coach known for her fiery sideline presence and emotional investment in every possession.
Freedom to Fail Forward
The most significant revelation from Fulwiley’s comments centers on her psychological approach to the game at LSU compared to South Carolina. The guard emphasized a mental liberation she’s experienced since transferring.
“I just feel like a little bit more free here, I feel like I don’t worry about making mistakes and if I make mistakes I’ll get it in the next play,” Fulwiley said.
This statement carries particular weight given Fulwiley’s playing style. Known for her flash, flair, and creative playmaking, the dynamic guard thrives when given freedom to take risks. The ability to play without fear of repercussion for mistakes—with the confidence that she can redeem herself on the next possession—appears to align perfectly with her natural game.
Diplomatic Balance
Despite the clear differences she identified, Fulwiley was careful to maintain respect for both programs and coaching philosophies.
“I like both coaches that’s probably like it,” she concluded.
This diplomatic approach reflects the reality that there’s been no public animosity surrounding her transfer. Staley publicly stated she wanted Fulwiley to be happy, and the separation appears to have been handled maturely by all parties involved.
Understanding the Context
Fulwiley’s comments illuminate why players might choose one championship program over another—not necessarily because one coach is superior, but because different coaching styles suit different players at different stages of their development.
Staley’s South Carolina program has built its dynasty on defensive discipline, systematic execution, and players buying into specific roles. This structure has produced back-to-back national championships and consistent Final Four appearances.
Mulkey’s approach, as described by Fulwiley, appears to emphasize passionate intensity while providing creative freedom—a combination that could unlock the next level of Fulwiley’s considerable talent.
The Bigger Picture
As South Carolina and LSU prepare for their Valentine’s Day showdown on ABC, Fulwiley’s podcast appearance adds another layer to an already compelling narrative. Her honest assessment of both programs provides fans with rare insider perspective on two of women’s basketball’s elite programs.
Ultimately, Fulwiley’s comments suggest her transfer wasn’t about escaping a negative situation but rather finding an environment better suited to her specific needs as a player. For a dynamic guard seeking creative freedom, Mulkey’s “crazy passion” might be exactly what she needed.
