That single word, posted across her social platforms, summed up the pride, support, and love that Fulwiley and countless others feel for Hall, a player who helped shape South Carolina women’s basketball into a national powerhouse. For some, it may have seemed minimal. But for those who’ve followed the journey—who’ve seen Hall’s grind, her resilience, her growth—Fulwiley’s one-word response hit home. Sometimes, less really is more.
For Bree Hall, the announcement was monumental. After years of dedication and sacrifice at South Carolina under legendary coach Dawn Staley, Hall finally saw her dreams materialize. Signing with the Valkyries not only means entering the professional ranks—it means becoming part of history, helping to build the foundation of a new WNBA franchise. That’s no small feat. And for Fulwiley, who is still crafting her own college legacy, seeing a teammate and friend take that leap means everything.
There’s something deeply special about the bond formed between college teammates. They sweat together, grind through long practices, navigate the highs and lows of seasons, and hold each other accountable. Fulwiley and Hall shared that bond, even if they were in different stages of their college careers. Hall, a steady leader and two-way threat, was someone younger players like Fulwiley could look up to—not just for what she brought on the court, but for how she carried herself off of it. Hall was never flashy. She was consistent, smart, and team-first in everything she did.
So when news broke that she had signed with the Valkyries, there was a collective swell of pride from South Carolina players, coaches, and fans. But Fulwiley’s one-word response stood out. It was sincere. It was real. And it captured the essence of what this moment meant—not just for Hall, but for everyone who watched her journey.
Dawn Staley, who has built a dynasty in Columbia, often speaks about the importance of sisterhood within the program. That culture is evident in how players support one another during and after their college careers. Fulwiley’s reaction to Hall’s big news is just the latest example of how deep those ties run. Even as players move on to the next chapter, the connection to the program and each other remains unbreakable.
For Fulwiley, a rising star in her own right, Hall’s success serves as inspiration. It’s a reminder that the path to greatness is built on consistency, humility, and seizing every opportunity. Hall wasn’t always in the headlines, but she always showed up. And now, she’s reaping the rewards of that quiet excellence.
It’s also a reminder of what makes South Carolina’s program so unique. It’s not just about individual accolades or highlight-reel plays. It’s about legacy, family, and lifting each other up. Fulwiley, with her dynamic skill set and growing national profile, is already being groomed to carry that torch. But she knows she’s standing on the shoulders of players like Bree Hall—women who showed what it means to lead with grace and grit.
The Golden State Valkyries are getting more than just a talented guard. They’re getting a player molded in a championship culture, someone who knows how to win and how to elevate those around her. Hall’s game may not always jump off the stat sheet, but her presence is undeniable. She plays tough defense, makes the right reads, and never forces the moment. She’s a glue player—the kind every great team needs.
And now, she’ll be doing it on one of the biggest stages in the world, wearing a Valkyries jersey and representing not just herself, but every teammate, coach, and fan who’s been part of her journey. That includes MiLaysia Fulwiley.
Social media lit up with reactions after Hall’s announcement, but Fulwiley’s stood out for its simplicity. It didn’t need hashtags or emojis or a long caption. It was just “Proud.” That one word carried the weight of countless hours in the gym, long bus rides, film sessions, and shared dreams. It carried the weight of friendship, respect, and the unspoken understanding that comes from walking the same path.
Moments like these show the beauty of women’s basketball. They show the heart behind the game—the relationships, the mutual respect, the shared sacrifices. Bree Hall’s professional journey is just beginning, but she’s already left a lasting impact on South Carolina. And Fulwiley’s reaction is a reminder of that legacy.
As Fulwiley continues to rise, carving her name into Gamecock history, she does so with examples like Hall to follow. There’s a lineage of greatness being passed down in Columbia, and each player adds to it in their own way. Hall added her chapter with humility and heart. Now Fulwiley is writing hers with fire and flair.
And one day, when it’s Fulwiley’s turn to make her own professional announcement, you can be sure the next wave of Gamecocks will respond in kind. Maybe it’ll be another one-word message. Maybe it’ll be something longer. But the emotion behind it will be just as real.
For now, though, it’s Bree Hall’s time to shine. She’s headed to the Bay Area, ready to represent her new team and her old one with pride. And she does so knowing that the people who matter most are cheering her on, including one of the brightest young stars in the college game.
“Proud.” That was all Fulwiley said. And really, that’s all that needed to be said.
Because in that one word lives a world of meaning—a nod to the journey, the growth, the bond. It’s the kind of response that transcends sports, that shows the depth of connection and the strength of sisterhood. In the end, it’s not about how much you say—it’s about what you mean.
Fulwiley meant every letter.
