In Columbia, South Carolina, the NCAA women’s basketball scene is buzzing with the latest announcement that MiLaysia Fulwiley, former star guard for the South Carolina Gamecocks, is transferring to the LSU Tigers. This news came hot on the heels of many college basketball athletes opting for the transfer portal after the 2025-26 season. Among them, Fulwiley stood out, creating quite a stir.
Fulwiley was often viewed as one of the most talented guards on the Gamecocks’ roster, yet there were questions about her satisfaction with her role, as she frequently came off the bench under coach Dawn Staley. While the exact reason for her transfer remains unclear, her move to LSU, one of South Carolina’s fiercest rivals in the SEC, certainly raises eyebrows.
The anticipation is building for their match-up on February 14, 2026, in Baton Rouge, as both teams prepare to clash in what promises to be an electrifying showdown, now with Fulwiley wearing a new jersey.
While her fit in coach Kim Mulkey’s offense alongside fellow guard Flau’jae Johnson brings some uncertainty, it’s sure to captivate fans. However, LSU has been ranked No. 5 in the latest AP Top 25 Preseason Women’s Basketball Poll, which means they still have a ways to go to reach the top.
Released on October 14, the poll features the defending champion UConn Huskies sitting at the top, even without their star player Paige Bueckers. Following UConn are the Gamecocks at No. 2 and UCLA at No. 3. LSU, with the addition of Fulwiley, is just behind Texas and UCLA in the rankings.
It’s important to recognize the implications of these rankings. Even though South Carolina has lost Chloe Kitts for the season due to an ACL tear, they still locked in their spot at No. 2. Meanwhile, the Trojans have dropped to No. 18 largely due to JuJu Watkins missing the entire season for similar reasons.
As the season approaches, the movements of athletes like Fulwiley add another layer of excitement to the NCAA women’s basketball landscape, making fans eager for what next season will bring.
