BREAKING NEWS: MiLaysia Fulwiley Electrifies Colonial Life Arena With Decision to Return for 2025-26 Season

By Mary John
April 18, 2025

COLUMBIA, S.C. — It was a moment that will be etched in the hearts of South Carolina Gamecocks fans for years to come. The energy inside Colonial Life Arena was already electric, but when sophomore sensation MiLaysia Fulwiley stepped up to the microphone and delivered five simple words—“I’m not going anywhere”—the roof nearly blew off the building.

Cheers. Tears. Thunderous applause.

In a bold and emotional announcement Thursday evening, Fulwiley confirmed that she will return to the University of South Carolina for her junior season, a decision that not only delighted Gamecock Nation but also sent shockwaves through the women’s college basketball world. Fulwiley, a dynamic guard who quickly became a fan favorite and national sensation for her dazzling handles, fearless scoring, and swagger, made it clear that her heart remains in Columbia.

“I love this team. I love this city. And I love playing for Coach Staley,” Fulwiley told the packed crowd. “We have unfinished business. I’m coming back to finish what we started.”

Fulwiley’s Rise to Stardom

From the moment she set foot on campus, MiLaysia Fulwiley captured the imagination of basketball fans. A Columbia native and product of Keenan High School, Fulwiley stayed home to play for Dawn Staley, the legendary coach who helped elevate South Carolina into a perennial powerhouse.

As a freshman in 2023-24, Fulwiley didn’t just contribute—she exploded onto the national scene. Her flashy style, creativity with the ball, and fearless play drew comparisons to Allen Iverson and Kyrie Irving. She became a viral sensation early in her freshman campaign, with highlight clips of her jaw-dropping crossovers and no-look passes racking up millions of views.

Despite coming off the bench for much of her first season, Fulwiley finished as one of the most impactful players in the country, helping lead the Gamecocks to the Final Four and earning SEC All-Freshman and All-Tournament honors.

Her sophomore season? Even better.

In 2024-25, she stepped into a starting role and embraced the spotlight. Fulwiley averaged 17.8 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.2 steals per game, showcasing her all-around game. She hit clutch shots, locked down elite opponents, and helped South Carolina reach another Final Four, narrowly falling to Iowa in an epic national semifinal. The sting of that loss—combined with her deep ties to her hometown and the Gamecocks program—played a major role in her decision to return.

The Decision That Shocked the WBB World

In today’s era of lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and early entries into the WNBA Draft, Fulwiley’s decision to return for another collegiate season is both surprising and refreshing. Projected as a potential top-three pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, she could have declared and cashed in on a pro contract and endorsement opportunities.

But Fulwiley isn’t finished in college basketball.

“Money will come. But legacies? Those are forever,” she said. “I want to leave here as one of the greatest to ever wear garnet and black. I want another shot at a national title. I want to bring one home for South Carolina.”

Sources close to the program say Fulwiley turned down seven-figure NIL deals from multiple brands and schools attempting to lure her away through the transfer portal. Instead, she chose loyalty, legacy, and the chance to continue growing under Coach Staley—one of the most respected voices in basketball at any level.

Coach Staley, who was standing behind her during the announcement, appeared visibly emotional.

“This is why we do what we do,” Staley said afterward. “MiLaysia is special—not just as a player, but as a person. Her commitment to this program, to her teammates, to her city—it’s bigger than basketball. I’m proud of her. And I can’t wait to see what she does next season.”

What This Means for South Carolina

Fulwiley’s return immediately makes South Carolina the favorites to win the 2026 national championship. With a core that includes fellow stars Chloe Kitts, Raven Johnson, and elite freshman forward Kennedy Smith, the Gamecocks are once again loaded.

Add to that one of the nation’s top recruiting classes and a hungry group of returners, and it’s clear that the Gamecocks are built for another deep March run.

“This isn’t just about me,” Fulwiley said. “We’re building something here. Our chemistry, our culture—it’s unmatched. We’re not done. Not even close.”

In a transfer portal era where movement is the norm, Fulwiley’s choice to stay sends a powerful message. It reinforces South Carolina’s status as the premier destination in women’s college hoops. Players want to be there. Stars want to stay. And the fanbase—arguably the most passionate in the country—only grows stronger.

Fulwiley’s Impact Beyond the Court

More than just a basketball star, MiLaysia Fulwiley has become a symbol of pride for South Carolina. Her decision to stay home and play for the flagship university inspired a wave of local support and made her one of the most beloved athletes in state history.

“She’s one of us,” said longtime fan Darlene McDaniel, who’s attended every home game for 15 years. “She could’ve gone anywhere, but she chose to stay and represent Columbia. And now she’s coming back again? That’s loyalty. That’s love.”

Her influence extends far beyond the hardwood. Fulwiley is active in community outreach, frequently working with youth basketball camps and mentoring young athletes. She’s also an emerging fashion icon, known for her pregame fits and partnerships with brands like Nike, Beats by Dre, and Columbia-based small businesses.

“She’s not just a hooper—she’s a role model, a trendsetter, and a voice for young women,” said former Gamecocks legend A’ja Wilson, who congratulated Fulwiley on social media. “This is huge for the game.”

The Legacy She’s Building

With another year in Columbia, Fulwiley has the chance to cement her legacy as one of the greatest players in Gamecocks history—a tall order considering the names that have come before her: Wilson, Destanni Henderson, Aliyah Boston, Tiffany Mitchell, and more.

But Fulwiley’s unique blend of flair, fearlessness, and hometown heroism gives her a special place in program lore.

If she continues on her trajectory, she could break into the top-10 all-time scorers list, challenge the program record for assists, and lead South Carolina to its third national championship under Coach Staley.

“This is about greatness,” Fulwiley said. “And we’re not done making history.”

National Reaction

The news of her return spread quickly across social media, with teammates, fans, and media personalities weighing in.

ESPN’s Andraya Carter tweeted:

“MiLaysia Fulwiley is one of the most electric players in the game—and she’s coming BACK?! Gamecocks just became even scarier.”

WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu chimed in:

“Respect to MiLaysia Fulwiley. Doing it her way. That’s how you build a legacy.”

Dawn Staley, in her post-announcement interview, said it best:

“She’s not just running it back—she’s running the game.”

Looking Ahead to 2025-26

The expectations will be massive, and Fulwiley knows it. But if her first two years are any indication, she thrives in the spotlight.

“I embrace it,” she said. “Pressure makes diamonds.”

The 2025-26 season will be one of the most anticipated campaigns in women’s college basketball history. With Fulwiley back, South Carolina instantly becomes the epicenter. Ticket sales are already spiking, NIL partners are scrambling to secure new deals, and ESPN is rumored to be building a documentary project around her junior season.

MiLaysia Fulwiley didn’t just announce a return. She announced a movement.

Final Thoughts

In an era where the pull of the pros and the portal is stronger than ever, MiLaysia Fulwiley’s decision is a rare and beautiful thing—a throwback to loyalty, heart, and legacy. Her words—“I’m not going anywhere”—echo louder than any endorsement deal ever could.

For Columbia. For South Carolina. For women’s basketball.

MiLaysia Fulwiley is back. And the world better be ready.