‘We Deserve Better’: South Carolina Star’s Father Calls Out Dawn Staley After Player’s Departure
The South Carolina women’s basketball program, led by Hall of Fame coach Dawn Staley, is facing rare public scrutiny after the father of MiLaysia Fulwiley — a former five-star recruit and one of the most electric young players in the country — publicly criticized the program following his daughter’s unexpected departure.
Fulwiley, who recently entered the NCAA transfer portal after completing her sophomore season with the Gamecocks, was seen as a rising star and future leader for a South Carolina team that continues to dominate the women’s college basketball landscape. But now, her decision to leave has sparked controversy, especially after her father, Michael Fulwiley, released a pointed message directed at Coach Staley and the Gamecock coaching staff.
“My daughter gave her heart to that program. She stayed loyal, stayed committed, but loyalty wasn’t returned,” Michael Fulwiley wrote on social media. “The treatment she received didn’t reflect what was promised during recruitment. We deserve better.”
A Sudden Exit
MiLaysia Fulwiley, a Columbia native and hometown hero, dazzled fans with her flashy handles, explosive pace, and highlight-reel finishes. She averaged 8.2 points, 2.5 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game this past season, often providing an offensive spark off the bench. Still, questions had lingered throughout the year regarding her playing time and role within Staley’s deep rotation.
Despite her potential and clear flashes of stardom, Fulwiley never fully broke into the starting lineup, sparking speculation that her development might be stalling in a crowded backcourt.
Her decision to transfer shocked many South Carolina fans, especially given her deep ties to the city and her status as one of the top-ranked recruits of the 2023 class.
A Father’s Message
Michael Fulwiley’s statement reflects a growing frustration not just with his daughter’s experience, but with the inner workings of a program that, while wildly successful, may be facing growing pains when it comes to player management in the era of the transfer portal.
“I’m not here to tarnish anyone’s legacy,” he said. “Coach Staley is a legend, no doubt. But legends still need to be held accountable when young athletes are being overlooked, benched without explanation, or emotionally sidelined. MiLaysia deserves more — and she’s not alone.”
He also hinted that several players had expressed similar frustrations privately but feared speaking out due to the program’s prestige and tight media control.
Silence from the Program
As of now, neither Coach Dawn Staley nor South Carolina’s athletic department has issued a formal response to the public criticism. Known for her player-first mentality and for building strong relationships within her roster, Staley has historically enjoyed near-universal respect from her athletes and their families.
However, this situation appears to represent a rare public challenge to her leadership style — and one that could stir broader conversations about the dynamics within elite women’s basketball programs.
What’s Next for Fulwiley?
Fulwiley has not yet announced her transfer destination, but major programs across the country have reportedly expressed interest. With two years of eligibility remaining, she will likely look for a program that can offer her a starring role and an opportunity to further develop her game — both as a scorer and a floor general.
Her exit leaves a noticeable hole in South Carolina’s guard rotation, even as the Gamecocks continue to reload with top-tier talent.
A Sign of the Times?
The Fulwiley case may represent more than an isolated incident. In the modern NCAA era — where players are more empowered, and the portal allows for greater mobility — elite athletes are less likely to accept limited roles without explanation.
And with family members now using their voices to hold programs accountable, even the most respected coaches are being asked to reflect, adapt, and evolve.
Whether this sparks changes inside the Gamecock locker room remains to be seen. But for now, one thing is clear: MiLaysia Fulwiley’s departure is about more than basketball — it’s about a young athlete reclaiming her path, and a father demanding that the system do better.
