USC Women’s Basketball
The announcement of MiLaysia Fulwiley entering the transfer portal sent ripples through the women’s college basketball world.
The loss of a player described by Dawn Staley as a “generational star” — especially one that was homegrown — is something South Carolina hasn’t experienced during Staley’s tenure.
However, the reality of Fulwiley no longer donning the garnet-and-black is a fact Gamecock fans will have to come to terms with.
On Monday, On3’s Talia Goodman reported that Fulwiley had officially entered the transfer portal with a “do not contact” tag. This tag typically indicates that a player has a specific destination in mind, although that’s not always the case.
With that in mind, let’s explore the potential destinations for Fulwiley as she looks to finish her college career.
An Under Armour School
There’s speculation that Fulwiley’s next destination could be an Under Armour school, given her apparel deal with Steph Curry’s Curry Brand.
In March 2024, Fulwiley made history by becoming the first collegiate athlete to sign with Curry Brand, unveiling two custom Curry Brand sneakers, one of which she wore during March Madness.
While it’s unclear how much influence this deal will have on her decision, these three Under Armour schools are likely candidates:
- Maryland: With Brenda Freese seeking a guard to replace Shyanne Sellers, Fulwiley could step into that role. Sellers, a three-time All-Big 10 player, averaged 14.4 points per game and is expected to be drafted in the WNBA. Fulwiley could team up with Kaylene Smilke (17.9 ppg) and transfer Yarden Garzon (Indiana) in the backcourt.
- Notre Dame: After losing Olivia Miles to the portal, Notre Dame might look to pair Fulwiley with Hannah Hidalgo in what could be a dynamic backcourt. While the pairing of two ball-dominant guards could present challenges, it would undoubtedly bring plenty of excitement to South Bend.
- Auburn: With Larry Vickers taking over as head coach and a significant roster shakeup, Auburn could benefit from adding a star like Fulwiley. While this might be the least likely Under Armour option, it would allow Fulwiley to stay within the SEC, continue her partnership with Under Armour, and be the focal point of the Tigers’ rebuild.
Schools from High School Recruitment
Back in November 2022, South Carolina fended off Ole Miss, Louisville, and Florida to secure Fulwiley’s commitment out of high school. Now, nearly three years later, two of those schools could be in the mix again.
- Ole Miss: Under the leadership of Yolett McPhee-McCuin, Ole Miss has made great strides, earning NCAA Tournament berths for three consecutive seasons and advancing to the Sweet 16 this year. With five transfer commitments already secured, Fulwiley could be the key to elevating the program to new heights. Choosing Ole Miss over Auburn feels like a more likely option, as Fulwiley would have an immediate impact and would be positioned for postseason play.
- Louisville: Jeff Walz has built a powerhouse at Louisville, with the program rarely missing the NCAA Tournament. Fulwiley could become one of the top players on the team, bringing her talents to a historically successful program with the potential to help return Louisville to the Final Four.
Powerhouse Programs
Like South Carolina, these powerhouse programs can attract top transfers from around the country, and they certainly have a shot at landing Fulwiley.
- LSU: After South Carolina’s victory in January, Kim Mulkey joked about wanting some of Dawn Staley’s former McDonald’s All-Americans who come off the bench. Fulwiley would fit that role, as LSU already has star guards Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams returning for the 2025-26 season. While she may be a secondary option in the rotation for a season, Fulwiley could help LSU chase titles, just as she would have at South Carolina.
- Southern Cal: The Trojan program lost star player Juju Watkins to a torn ACL in the NCAA Tournament. With Watkins’ recovery time still uncertain, Southern Cal also saw four guards enter the transfer portal. Fulwiley could be the perfect answer for head coach Lindsey Gottlieb, stepping into the spotlight this season and potentially pairing with Watkins once she returns, making Southern Cal an even more compelling team to watch.
