Coach Dawn Staley’s quixotic moves are already making the NCAA opener a ‘Love in Paris’ saga. Apart from introducing debutant MiLaysia Fulwiley whose dunk drew comparisons with King James and Steph Curry, Coach Dawn who mentored players like A’ja Wilson made many wonder about her team’s first outing in France. The answer is as intriguing as the opener itself.

The 2023-24 college women’s basketball season kicked off with an interesting matchup between the #10 Notre Dame and #4 South Carolina. This was the first-ever college basketball game in both men’s and women’s, in the regular season to be played in Paris.

But why did Paris become venue for Dawn’s Dozen?

The reason behind South Carolina’s decision to play in Paris is the unique opportunity for the students and athletes to put the game on the international map. This move can surely break barriers and avail many opportunities for the players (on both ends) to have a life-altering experience.

The season opener was held at the sold-out Halles Georges Arena, in Paris, with an attendance of nearly 3000 people. Moreover, the game was hosted and attended by Complete Sports Management, along with the director of the French U.S. Embassy and Anne Hidalgo, Mayor of the city of Paris.

Last season, South Carolina was ranked #1 as it stayed undefeated until it reached the Final Four when it was aiming to repeat as national champions. However, it was the game where it lost its lead to Iowa in the semifinals.

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Adding to the team’s impressive performance now, who’s Coach Dawn’s new recruit MiLaysia Fulwiley?

New A’ja Wilson?

Turning heads in her debut game in Paris, MiLaysia’s play instantly forced fans to draw comparisons of her with the WNBA Aces star A’ja Wilson. The significance of this comparison comes from South Carolina being A’ja’s alma mater. Evidently, during her time, A’ja performed with exceptional talent and unique potential. Now, MiLaysia is seen walking in the same footsteps.

But while comparisons are usually drawn between players, each has their own style and skill. MiLaysia demonstrated that with her daunting debut, and even left Wilson in awe.

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She may be following in Wilson’s footsteps, but MiLaysia is definitely going to carve her own path. Her arrival has already made the season spectacular and full of excitement.