It’s not just the men’s side of college basketball that’s been affected by the transfer portal. The Women’s side of the sport has also seen many of its stars leave teams. The most notable name was Olivia Miles, the three-time All-ACC guard who went from Notre Dame to TCU this offseason.
Another name who made shockwaves by entering the portal was MiLaysia Fulwiley, a former 5-star prospect out of high school. She was part of the 2024 national championship team at South Carolina and was the SEC 6th Man of the Year, averaging 11.7 ppg in 19 mpg off the bench. The All-SEC guard had four games of at least 20 points, including 23 in a win over Maryland in the Sweet 16.
Fulwiley entered the portal and picked the ultimate rival after making her decision. LSU is another recent national champion and perennial contender, likely a preseason top-5 team for next year. Despite losing leading scoring forward Aneesah Morrow, the Tigers are set to return stars, Mikaylah Williams and Flau’jae Johnson, guards who each averaged over 11 ppg.
Filwiley could start alongside them or come off the bench in the same 6th Man role. Either way, they’ll be a clear contender. But don’t think that South Carolina Women are doomed to rebuild. Although they’re losing two other starters in Bree Hall and Te-Hina Paopao, the Gamecocks bring in Ta'Niya Latson, the nation’s leading scorer from this past season at Florida State, averaging 25.2 ppg.
Considering that freshman forward Joyce Edwards led the team with 12.7 ppg, having someone like Latson will be huge for South Carolina’s offense next season, making them also a preseason top-5 team for the 2025-26 campaign.
One thing is sure: LSU and South Carolina’s rivalry will be a national story when they face off again, with Fulwiley being the main attraction.