FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 12, 2025
Gamecocks’ MiLaysia Fulwiley Sends Emotional Letter to Coach Dawn Staley as She Eyes WNBA Draft
Columbia, SC – In a move that has taken both fans and teammates by surprise, South Carolina Gamecocks standout MiLaysia Fulwiley has submitted a heartfelt and startling letter to Head Coach Dawn Staley, officially announcing her intentions to declare for the WNBA Draft and depart from the team’s roster.
In her letter, Fulwiley expressed deep gratitude to Coach Staley for her mentorship, leadership, and the unwavering support she has provided over the years. “Coach, you believed in me before the world even knew my name,” the letter begins. “You gave me the confidence to grow, to lead, and to chase every dream with fire.”
Fulwiley, known for her electric playmaking, fearless drives, and clutch performances, leaves behind a legacy of excellence. In her letter, she recalled pivotal moments from her time as a Gamecock, including unforgettable buzzer-beaters, championship runs, and the bond she built with her teammates. “Every time I stepped on that court, I played for this family, this city, and for you,” she wrote.
The decision to declare for the draft comes after weeks of contemplation, according to sources close to Fulwiley. In her message, she admitted the choice was not easy. “Leaving is hard, but growing means stepping into new challenges. The WNBA has been my dream since I was a kid bouncing a ball on the blacktop. Now it’s time,” she wrote.
Coach Staley has yet to publicly respond to the letter, but it’s expected she will address Fulwiley’s departure in a press conference later this week. Sources within the program suggest she is both proud and emotional, having played a key role in Fulwiley’s development both as an athlete and a person.
Fulwiley’s departure marks the end of a dynamic chapter in South Carolina basketball. Her impact was immediate and lasting, sparking highlight reels and rallying fans to the Colonial Life Arena in record numbers. The announcement, though anticipated by some, still came with a wave of emotion across social media.
Teammates and fans have already begun posting tributes and well-wishes to the star guard, flooding platforms with messages of love and support. “You’re more than a baller, you’re an inspiration,” one teammate posted. “Go shine in the league. We’ve got your back forever.”
In closing her letter, Fulwiley addressed not just her coach, but the entire Gamecock community. “This isn’t goodbye. This is ‘see you later’ — from the pros, from the next chapter. I’ll always be a Gamecock at heart. Forever to thee.”
MiLaysia Fulwiley is expected to be a top pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft, bringing her elite skill set and tenacity to the professional stage. As South Carolina prepares for next season without one of its brightest stars, the legacy she leaves behind will no doubt inspire future generations.
Contact:
University of South Carolina Athletics Communications
Email: gamecockpr@sc.edu