"Basketball is not my whole life": MiLaysia Fulwiley opens up about what she wants her reputation to be

Sophomore guard MiLaysia Fulwiley has quickly become a standout in South Carolina. Fulwiley recently revisited the parks and courts that shaped her game. In a video titled "Homegrown: MiLaysia Fulwiley," shared on the Gamecocks’ official YouTube channel, Fulwiley opened up about her identity beyond basketball.

“At the end of the day, your reputation and your personality is what people remember the most and what matters the most," Fulwiley said. "I’m just trying to become a better version of myself off the court. Basketball is not my whole life.”

She went on to explain how she would want people to remember her:

“I want people to know me as something other than just a basketball player or a flashy player. (I want people to know me) as a nice woman or nice or sweet or kind, just anything like that.”

MiLaysia Fulwiley has transformed into a key player for the Gamecocks

South Carolina Gamecocks guard MiLaysia Fulwiley (12) drives against the Wofford Terriers in the first half - Source: Imagn

MiLaysia Fulwiley is averaging 10.1 points, 2.5 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 0.9 steals per game in 17.8 minutes. In their final game of 2024, the Gamecocks delivered a commanding 93-47 victory over Wofford, extending their winning streak to seven games.

Fulwiley hit a team-high three 3-pointers. Joyce Edwards led the Gamecocks with 16 points, followed by Tessa Johnson’s 14, as South Carolina demonstrated its depth with five players scoring in double figures. They got the job done despite being without key players like Maddy McDaniel and Sakima Walker.

As South Carolina transitions into SEC competition, starting with a faceoff against Missouri on Jan. 2, the Gamecocks aim to build on their momentum. They hold a 12-1 record and are ranked No. 2 in the nation according to AP.

Fulwiley was a key contributor in South Carolina’s undefeated 38-0 national championship season. She also became the first college basketball player to sign with NBA superstar Steph Curry's Curry Brand in March.