**BREAKING: MiLaysia Fulwiley Enters Transfer Portal with “Do Not Contact” Tag, Hinting She Already Knows Her Next Move After Leaving South Carolina**
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through women’s college basketball, South Carolina guard MiLaysia Fulwiley has entered the NCAA transfer portal with a “do not contact” designation, signaling that she has likely already chosen her next destination. The move comes just weeks after the Gamecocks completed a historic undefeated national championship season, raising immediate questions about the future of one of the program’s most electrifying young talents. Fulwiley, a dynamic 5’7” point guard, was a key contributor off the bench for Dawn Staley’s squad, showcasing flashes of brilliance that made her one of the most exciting freshmen in the country. Her decision to enter the portal—and do so with a “do not contact” tag—suggests that her next move may have been in the works for some time, leaving fans and analysts scrambling to speculate on where she could be headed.
Fulwiley’s freshman season at South Carolina was a promising one, as she averaged 5.7 points, 1.5 assists, and 1.3 rebounds in just 11.7 minutes per game. While her playing time was limited on a stacked roster featuring All-Americans like Kamilla Cardoso and Te-Hina Paopao, Fulwiley’s speed, ball-handling, and fearless attacking style made her an instant fan favorite. Her breakout performance came in November against then-No. 10 Notre Dame, where she dropped 17 points in just 14 minutes, offering a glimpse of her star potential. However, as the season progressed, her role fluctuated, and with South Carolina returning nearly its entire core next season—plus another elite recruiting class coming in—Fulwiley may have seen a clearer path to major minutes elsewhere.
The “do not contact” label attached to her portal entry is particularly intriguing. This designation is often used when a player has already zeroed in on a specific school and does not want to be recruited by other programs. In Fulwiley’s case, it fuels speculation that she may have been in discussions with another program before officially entering the portal, possibly even securing a commitment behind the scenes. Given her talent and profile, several powerhouse programs would undoubtedly be interested, with schools like LSU, UConn, Ohio State, and USC likely at the top of the list. LSU, in particular, has been aggressive in the transfer portal under Kim Mulkey and could offer Fulwiley a more prominent role in its fast-paced system. Meanwhile, UConn’s need for guard depth and Geno Auriemma’s track record of developing elite playmakers could make the Huskies an appealing option.
Another factor in Fulwiley’s decision could be Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities. As one of the most recognizable young guards in the sport, her marketability is undeniable, and a program with a strong NIL collective might have presented a compelling financial package. Additionally, the chance to be “the star” of a team—rather than a rotational piece at South Carolina—could have been a driving force. While playing for a championship program like the Gamecocks has undeniable benefits, some players prioritize immediate playing time and individual development, especially with professional aspirations.
For South Carolina, Fulwiley’s departure is a significant loss in terms of backcourt depth, but not one that will derail the program’s championship aspirations. Staley has built a juggernaut that reloads rather than rebuilds, and the Gamecocks still return a loaded roster featuring Raven Johnson, Tessa Johnson, and incoming top recruit Joyce Edwards. Still, Fulwiley’s potential was undeniable, and her absence means South Carolina will have to rely more heavily on its other guards to fill the void.
As for Fulwiley, her next stop will be closely watched. If she lands at another contender, she could immediately become a focal point of their offense. If she chooses a program on the rise, she could be the piece that pushes them into national relevance. Either way, her transfer has the potential to shift the balance of power in women’s college basketball.
The timing of her decision also raises questions about whether there were underlying factors—such as playing time concerns, stylistic fit, or personal reasons—that led to her departure. While Staley has fostered a family-like culture at South Carolina, the reality of modern college athletics is that players are more willing than ever to seek better opportunities elsewhere. Fulwiley’s move is a reminder that even championship programs aren’t immune to roster turnover in the transfer portal era.
Wherever she ends up, Fulwiley will bring game-changing speed, creativity, and scoring punch to her new team. Her ability to break down defenses, hit clutch shots, and energize a crowd makes her a coveted addition. The “do not contact” tag suggests an announcement could come soon, and when it does, it will undoubtedly be one of the biggest stories of the offseason.
For now, the women’s basketball world waits anxiously for the next chapter in MiLaysia Fulwiley’s career. One thing is certain: her decision will have major ramifications for the 2024-25 season.
