In a significant move that could shake up the landscape of women's college basketball, MiLaysia Fulwiley, a standout guard from South Carolina, has announced her transfer to LSU. The decision, made public on April 25, 2025, comes after Fulwiley entered the transfer portal just a week earlier, on April 17. This transfer not only adds a formidable player to LSU's roster but also intensifies the rivalry between the Tigers and the Gamecocks as they prepare for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
Fulwiley, who is a rising junior, has two years of eligibility remaining and brings a wealth of experience and talent to Baton Rouge. During her time at South Carolina, she was recognized as the SEC's reigning Sixth Woman of the Year, showcasing her ability to make a significant impact off the bench. In the past season, she averaged 11.7 points, 2.0 assists, and 2.8 rebounds while playing an average of just 18.9 minutes per game. Her scoring prowess is even more impressive when considering her per-40-minute average, which stands at approximately 25 points.
Fulwiley's decision to transfer appears to have been influenced by the Gamecocks' recent roster changes, particularly the addition of All-American guard Ta'Niya Latson from Florida State. With Latson joining South Carolina, Fulwiley's path to a starting role with the Gamecocks became more challenging, prompting her to seek new opportunities at LSU.
Head coach Kim Mulkey expressed her excitement about Fulwiley's commitment, stating, "I’m excited to welcome MiLaysia as the newest member of our LSU Tiger family! She’s bringing her incredible playmaking ability to Baton Rouge, standing out as one of the most electrifying talents in college basketball. Her ability to impact winning has been clear throughout her career, and we can’t wait to see her shine in purple and gold at the PMAC soon!" Mulkey's enthusiasm highlights the expectations surrounding Fulwiley as she joins a team that is already filled with talent.
As it stands, LSU's roster is heavily guard-oriented, featuring nine guards and only three forwards. This imbalance suggests that the Tigers will need to make additional moves to strengthen their frontcourt, and they are currently pursuing former Wisconsin player Serah Williams to address this issue. With Fulwiley's arrival, LSU hopes to solidify its backcourt, pairing her with returning stars Flau’Jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams.
The rivalry between LSU and South Carolina has been heating up in recent years, with both teams consistently competing at the top of the SEC. The Gamecocks have not lost to the Tigers since January 12, 2012, but the intensity of their matchups has increased, particularly following a heated encounter in the SEC tournament championship game. In that game, Fulwiley played a pivotal role, scoring 24 points and earning SEC tournament MVP honors as a freshman, further establishing her as a key player in the rivalry.
Looking ahead, the upcoming season promises to be thrilling as Fulwiley prepares to face her former team. LSU and South Carolina will meet during the 2025-26 season, and the stakes will be high as both teams vie for supremacy in the SEC. With Fulwiley's dynamic skill set and the existing talent at LSU, the Tigers are positioning themselves as serious contenders.
Fulwiley's transfer is just one part of a larger trend in women's college basketball, as players increasingly seek new opportunities through the transfer portal. This offseason has seen significant movement among top players, with Fulwiley ranked as the No. 5 overall player in the women's transfer portal, according to ESPN's Charlie Creme. The landscape of college basketball is evolving, and Fulwiley's move to LSU is a testament to that ongoing transformation.
As LSU prepares for the upcoming season, the addition of Fulwiley is sure to energize the program and its fan base. The anticipation for her debut in purple and gold is palpable, and many are eager to see how she will adapt to her new role and contribute to the Tigers' success. With the rivalry against South Carolina looming, all eyes will be on Fulwiley as she embarks on this new chapter in her collegiate career.
