17YO Talent Hunt: Is Dawn Staley Manufacturing Another A’ja Wilson for WNBA in MiLaysia Fulwiley?

Her arrival has already created brouhaha in the basketball world. Legend Magic Johnson likened her stunning shot with LeBron James and Stephen Curry’s ball game. But while the comparison triggered mixed reactions from the NBA fandom, the rookie has already put a massive spotlight on the ongoing NCAA season. Amid praises and polemics, MiLaysia Fulwiley’s advent as a college star has sparked the possibility of another Ace. 

Fulwiley made a deafening debut during the season opener between South Carolina Gamecocks and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. After dropping 17 points, 1 rebound, and 6 assists, her impressive skills and moves on the court made fans wonder if Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley is grooming another WNBA star. 

Dawn of another A’ja Wilson?

Las Vegas star A’ja Wilson is one of the most respected and influential figures in the WNBA league. Even her college career was nothing short of legendary. From being SEC Player of the Year to becoming South Carolina’s all-time leading scorer, she left a permanent mark on Carolina’s basketball legacy.

In the following years, she continued to excel, winning multiple Player of the Year awards and leading her team to SEC championships and a historic national title. Under the guidance of coach Dawn Staley, Wilson reached new heights and now stands as one of the best players in the league, leading her team to back-to-back championships.

MiLaysia’s first game feat against Notre Dame reminded many of Wilson’s court exploits. Even legends like Magic Johnson and Kevin Durant weren’t behind in praising the young star. The performance made many believe coach Dawn is only nurturing another star.   

Read More: “LFG”: LeBron James Gets Pumped as USC Debutant JuJu Watkins Goes Off in NCAA Season Opener

As the No. 13 overall prospect in the 2024 recruiting class, Fulwiley was already regarded highly even before setting foot on the court for the South Carolina Gamecocks.

A “Generational Talent”

Being just 5 foot 7 inches, Fulwiley averaged 25.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 5.7 steals, and 2.7 blocks during her senior season in high school and can even dunk. With a height like hers, dunking in basketball is nothing short of magic, and it just serves as a testament to her prowess. Her basketball brilliance led coach Staley to reach out to her and offer her a scholarship while she was just in 7th grade, calling her “Generational talent.”

In November this year, she announced her commitment to South Carolina and marked her presence with the dazzling debut itself. 

What’s next for the Gamecocks?

After securing a flawless victory over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, the Gamecocks are all set to play against the Maryland Terrapins in their next game. While both the teams will be looking for a win, MiLaysia Fulwiley’s addition to South Carolina gives them an edge over the Terrapins, making them one of the strongest teams in the league. 

While fans are now expecting great things from Fulwiley, she will undoubtedly be under increased pressure as all eyes will be on her. 

Watch This Story: Impressing A’ja Wilson With NCAA Fierceness, Angel Reese Opens Up About Impact on WNBA

But as the 2023-24 NCAA season kicks off with an incredible start from all the teams, which team will you be rooting for this season? Tell us in the comments section!