The latest developments in the collegiate basketball world reveal that the electrifying MiLaysia Fulwiley, a standout guard formerly of the South Carolina Gamecocks, has not, in fact, resigned from the NCAA Draft. This assertion appears to be a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of recent events. Instead, Fulwiley made a significant and highly-publicized move within the NCAA transfer portal, ultimately committing to the LSU Tigers, a formidable SEC rival, not the “Cougars” as might have been implied. This transfer has sent ripples through women’s college basketball, further underscoring the dynamic nature of the sport’s landscape in the NIL era.
MiLaysia Fulwiley’s journey has been one of consistent headline-making since her high school days in Columbia, South Carolina. A five-star recruit from W.J. Keenan High School, where she became the all-time leading scorer and won four state championships, her decision to commit to her hometown South Carolina Gamecocks was a celebrated one. Under the guidance of Coach Dawn Staley, Fulwiley quickly became a fan favorite, known for her dazzling ball-handling, acrobatic finishes, and clutch playmaking.
During her freshman season (2023-2024), Fulwiley was instrumental in the Gamecocks’ historic undefeated national championship run, finishing with a perfect 38-0 record. Despite coming off the bench for much of the season, her impactful performances earned her the SEC Tournament MVP award, a remarkable achievement for a freshman. She averaged 11.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, demonstrating her offensive efficiency and overall impact.
Her sophomore season (2024-2025) saw her continue to thrive in a reserve role for South Carolina. She averaged 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists, and was recognized as the SEC Sixth Player of the Year. Throughout her time in Columbia, Fulwiley produced numerous highlight-reel plays that went viral, solidifying her reputation as one of the most exciting and unpredictable talents in women’s college basketball.
Beyond her on-court brilliance, MiLaysia Fulwiley established herself as a pioneer in the burgeoning Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) space. Her authentic personality and engaging social media presence made her highly marketable. In March 2024, she made history by becoming the first collegiate NIL athlete to sign with Curry Brand, Stephen Curry’s signature line under Under Armour. This multi-year partnership led to the release of her own signature shoe, the Curry Brand Grade MF12, with “Butta” and “FamLAY” editions, marking a significant milestone for a college athlete.
However, her most groundbreaking NIL deal came on March 19, 2024, when she partnered with Red Bull. This landmark agreement made her the first NCAA athlete to be directly signed by the global energy drink giant. Red Bull, known for its strategic investments in extreme sports and elite global athletes, recognized Fulwiley’s electrifying playing style and fearless approach as a perfect fit for its brand identity. This partnership extended beyond a typical endorsement, providing Fulwiley with access to Red Bull’s performance centers, athlete networks, and various platforms, offering holistic support for her brand and athletic development.
The “recent news” about Fulwiley’s movements actually pertains to her decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal in April 2025. This move immediately made her one of the most sought-after players in the portal, with top programs across the country vying for her services. After a period of speculation and consideration, Fulwiley announced her commitment to the LSU Tigers. This was a significant development, as LSU is not only a major force in women’s college basketball but also a fierce SEC rival to South Carolina.
Her decision to transfer to LSU was likely driven by a desire for an expanded role and increased playing time, as well as the opportunity to be a primary offensive weapon. While she achieved immense success at South Carolina, including a national championship, her minutes often fluctuated due to the Gamecocks’ incredible depth and a coaching philosophy that emphasized a balanced, committee approach. At LSU, under coach Kim Mulkey, Fulwiley is expected to take on a more consistent and prominent role in the offense, playing alongside other stars like Flau’jae Johnson and Mikaylah Williams. The opportunity to play in a system that might offer more freedom for her creative offensive game was a compelling factor.
Therefore, the narrative that MiLaysia Fulwiley “resigned from the NCAA Draft” and “returned to the Cougars” is incorrect. She is still very much an active NCAA athlete, having transferred from the South Carolina Gamecocks to the LSU Tigers. Her NIL deals, including the groundbreaking Red Bull partnership, remain a significant part of her brand and career, showcasing her continued status as a pioneering figure in college sports. Her move to LSU further highlights the evolving dynamics of player movement in the NIL era, where athletes have unprecedented agency in shaping their collegiate careers. She continues to be a central figure in the exciting future of women’s college basketball.
