As time waned in the third quarter of South Carolina’s Sweet 16 win over Maryland in the 2025 Women’s NCAA Tournament, the score was deadlocked at 50-50 until MiLaysia Fulwiley decided to change that. She pushed the ball up the court in transition, but didn’t have support and the shot clock was off. The prudent choice would have been to hold for the last shot. Instead, Fulwiley creatively maneuvered and made an off-balance floater.

“I expect her to do the things that she was doing out there for us,” said South Carolina coach Dawn Staley. “I don’t know how it’s going to look because it looks a lot different than most. She’s got a lot of gall to try some of the stuff that she does, but it’s just part of who she is.”

Fulwiley’s daring drive at the end of the third was one of many key plays the sophomore made in the second half, helping the Gamecocks secure a 71-67 victory. She also made the decisive basket late in the fourth quarter, scoring a career-high 23 points, along with five rebounds and three assists.

No. 1 seed South Carolina seeks to become the first team to back-to-back national champions since UConn’s four consecutive titles from 2013-16.

Early on, it was clear this would not be a straightforward night for the Gamecocks, trailing at halftime despite their opponents’ weak defense this season. Fulwiley has the ability to manufacture her own shot and make baskets under pressure, contributing greatly to her team’s success.

“When I get on [MiLaysia] it’s more about her responding to bad shots,” Staley explained. “She makes a living off of making bad shots, which is good. She’s someone who can bear the pressure, and I’m glad she showed that growth.”

Currently, South Carolina is advancing to the Elite Eight for the fifth consecutive year, facing No. 2 seed Duke for the chance to reach the Final Four.