Milaysia Fulwiley’s rapid rise to stardom has been nothing short of phenomenal. As a homegrown talent from Columbia, South Carolina, she has embodied the essence of dedication, perseverance, and talent, all of which have catapulted her into the national spotlight. Her latest accolade—being named a finalist for the Dawn Staley Award—cements her place among the best in women’s college basketball. But her journey to this point is as remarkable as her performances on the court.
From the moment Fulwiley stepped onto the court for the University of South Carolina, it was evident she was no ordinary player. She came in with high expectations, having been one of the most electrifying high school prospects in the nation. But rather than buckling under the weight of those expectations, she thrived. Her freshman year with the Gamecocks was filled with breathtaking moments, each one a testament to her elite ball-handling skills, scoring ability, and court vision. Even in a program known for its excellence, Fulwiley found a way to stand out, carving her own legacy in a team brimming with top-tier talent.
One of the biggest reasons Fulwiley has garnered national attention is her ability to deliver in big moments. In the SEC Tournament, she showed exactly why she’s one of the most dynamic players in the country. In the championship game against LSU, she put on a masterclass in scoring, dropping 24 points to lead the Gamecocks to victory. It wasn’t just the numbers that made the performance special, but the manner in which she dominated—effortlessly weaving through defenders, knocking down clutch shots, and setting the pace for her team. That tournament performance was a microcosm of Fulwiley’s impact on the court: fearless, confident, and always in control.
Following her standout freshman year, Fulwiley didn’t rest on her laurels. Her sophomore season saw her elevate her game even further, becoming one of the most well-rounded guards in college basketball. Averaging 12 points per game on a team loaded with talent speaks volumes about her consistency and ability to contribute in different ways. But beyond just the numbers, it was her leadership and ability to step up in key moments that truly set her apart. Her defensive intensity was also a major asset, leading the team in steals while maintaining her status as a playmaker on offense.
Being named a finalist for the Dawn Staley Award is a significant honor, one that places her in elite company. The award is given to the best guard in women’s college basketball, someone who embodies the same qualities that made Dawn Staley a legend. For Fulwiley, being recognized for an award named after her coach is particularly meaningful. Staley, a Hall of Famer and one of the most respected figures in the sport, has been a guiding force in Fulwiley’s development. To be a finalist for an award that bears her name speaks to just how impactful Fulwiley has been in her young career.
One of the defining aspects of Fulwiley’s game is her creativity. She has an innate ability to make plays that leave fans and analysts in awe. Whether it’s a behind-the-back assist, a lightning-quick crossover, or a deep three-pointer at the buzzer, she brings an electrifying presence to the court. These are the types of plays that not only win games but also inspire young athletes to emulate her style. In an era where women’s basketball is gaining more attention than ever, Fulwiley is at the forefront of a new generation of players who are pushing the game to new heights.
Her impact isn’t limited to the collegiate level. She has already caught the attention of professional scouts, with many seeing her as a future WNBA star. Her skill set translates seamlessly to the next level—her ball-handling, scoring ability, and defensive tenacity make her a prime candidate for success in the professional ranks. But for now, she remains focused on her time with the Gamecocks, fully committed to bringing another national championship to South Carolina.
Off the court, Fulwiley is just as impressive. Her NIL deal with Curry Brand was a historic moment, making her the first college athlete to sign with the company. This partnership is a testament to both her marketability and the growing influence of women’s basketball. It’s also an indication of her status as a role model for young athletes. She represents the next generation of basketball stars, proving that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
The South Carolina Gamecocks have a rich history of producing elite talent, and Fulwiley is the latest in a long line of stars. Under the guidance of Dawn Staley, she has flourished, becoming a key piece of one of the most dominant programs in the country. The Gamecocks’ success over the years has been built on a foundation of hard work, discipline, and excellence—values that Fulwiley embodies every time she steps on the court.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Fulwiley to see how far she can take this team. With March Madness around the corner, she will undoubtedly be a player to watch, capable of taking over games and leading South Carolina on another deep tournament run. Whether it’s her scoring, passing, or defensive prowess, she has all the tools necessary to be the difference-maker in the most important games of the season.
The recognition as a finalist for the Dawn Staley Award is well-deserved, but for Fulwiley, this is just the beginning. Her potential is limitless, and as she continues to develop, the sky is truly the limit. She has already set records and achieved milestones that many players can only dream of, but her journey is far from over. With each game, she continues to write her own story—one that will be remembered for years to come.
Fulwiley’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and an unrelenting drive to be the best. Whether it’s breaking records, dazzling fans with her highlight-reel plays, or stepping up in clutch moments, she has proven time and time again that she belongs among the best. As she continues to make her mark on the game, there is no doubt that she will go down as one of the greatest players in South Carolina history.
Her nomination for the Dawn Staley Award is a reflection of everything she has accomplished, but it also serves as motivation for what lies ahead. She is not just playing for individual accolades—she is playing for championships, for her teammates, and for the legacy she is building. And as long as she is on the court, the Gamecocks will always have a chance to achieve greatness.