It’s been a challenging stretch for Dawn Staley and the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Aiming for back-to-back national titles—and their third in four seasons—South Carolina suffered a crushing 82-59 loss to the UConn Huskies. Offensively, the Gamecocks struggled mightily, shooting just 34.4% from the field and lacking a consistent scoring spark.
One player many fans hoped would bring that offensive boost was MiLaysia Fulwiley—a dynamic fan favorite who many believed deserved a bigger role off the bench. That belief may have been shared by Fulwiley herself. As reported by Lulu Kesin of The Greenville News on Friday, Fulwiley has officially entered the transfer portal.
The news has sparked a wave of backlash directed at Coach Staley, with many supporters blaming her for not maximizing Fulwiley’s potential.
“Time for her to be the superstar she can.. SC will always be Dawn Staley first, players second,” one fan posted.
“Fulwiley going into the portal is on Dawn Staley for not utilizing her right. There is no good reason MiLaysia should’ve been coming off the bench. Your top two scorers were bench players—that’s a problem,” another pointed out.
“Best thing she could’ve done! Dawn Staley wasted this girl’s talent for 2 years! She’s a superstar & had her coming off the bench smh,” read another comment.
“I was wondering how long MiLaysia Fulwiley was gonna sit behind guards that can’t beat her on any day. Complete misuse of talent by Dawn Staley,” added one frustrated fan.
“She too good to be coming off the bench for 3 years,” said another.
The timing of Fulwiley’s decision also coincides with South Carolina’s acquisition of Florida State transfer Ta’Niya Latson, the nation’s leading scorer this past season—further tightening the competition in the backcourt.
Now in the portal, Fulwiley is expected to be one of the most highly coveted players available, with top programs across the country likely to pursue her.
