The fierce rivalry between the South Carolina Gamecocks and the LSU Tigers in women’s basketball has intensified over recent years, both on and off the court. With both programs capturing national titles in the past three seasons, the competition is only heating up.
South Carolina secured championships in 2022 and 2024, while Kim Mulkey led LSU to the crown in 2023. Both teams now boast three national titles in program history. However, the UConn Huskies disrupted the SEC’s dominance in 2025, snapping the streak of back-to-back SEC champions.
Now, the battle has shifted off the hardwood—into the realms of recruiting and the NCAA transfer portal.
On April 17, MiLaysia Fulwiley shocked fans by announcing her decision to enter the transfer portal, officially departing from Coach Dawn Staley and the Gamecocks. As rumors swirl about her next move, one program appears to be in the lead.
According to I Talk Hoops, a source covering both the WNBA and college basketball, “There’s growing speculation that LSU has emerged as the frontrunner for both MiLaysia Fulwiley and Serah Williams.”
Fulwiley made a strong impression in her freshman campaign with South Carolina in 2023. In her debut, she tallied 17 points and six assists in a commanding 100-71 win over Notre Dame. Her standout season earned her a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team.
Throughout the 2024–2025 season, Fulwiley appeared in 39 games, averaging 18.9 minutes, 11.7 points, and 2.8 rebounds per game.
One of her biggest moments came during the Sweet 16 clash against Maryland, where she exploded for 23 points in just 21 minutes, helping the Gamecocks edge out a 71-67 victory.
Her final appearance in a South Carolina jersey came in the NCAA title game, where she contributed nine points in 18 minutes during their 82-59 loss to UConn.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes are on Fulwiley’s next move—and if she joins the Tigers, this heated SEC rivalry might just reach a whole new level.
