Dawn Staley Reflects on MiLaysia Fulwiley as a Younger, More Astute Version of Herself
South Carolina's head coach, Dawn Staley, expresses her support for MiLaysia Fulwiley, who transferred to LSU, in her latest autobiography.
Although MiLaysia Fulwiley is now part of the LSU Tigers, she remains a focus of attention for South Carolina coach Dawn Staley in her autobiography, “Uncommon Favor.” Staley referred to Fulwiley as “Dawn 2.0” due to their personality similarities.
“The irony that I am coaching a younger, savvier version of myself is not lost on me,” Staley noted. “I have heard from so many adults who gave their own parents hell, only to see their teenagers return the favor. Now, it’s my turn in the barrel.”
Recognizing her own reflection in Fulwiley, Staley adapted her coaching approach, choosing not to yell at her or publicly reprimand her, knowing that such tactics wouldn’t yield positive results.
However, there was a situation where Staley had to divert from this method. In her book, she recounts a moment when she had to address Fulwiley’s behavior after the player expressed dissatisfaction with her playing time.
“MiLaysia didn’t like the fact that she didn’t play a whole lot in a game and was making a stink about it,” Staley explained. “I had to let her know that one, it doesn’t do me any good to have her sitting on the bench. And two, 90 percent of the time in her short career, she’d been on the floor at the end of the game. You riding the bench means somebody else is getting it done. Be happy for them. Don’t say things you will regret.”
After this event, when Staley sought feedback from the team on their dynamics, Fulwiley acknowledged that she could have approached the situation more maturely, which pleased Staley, viewing it as a “baby step toward a better habit.”
As the offseason has been noticeably impacted by Fulwiley’s transfer, Staley has shown her unwavering support for the talent, hoping for her success in future endeavors—except when LSU faces South Carolina.
“I really do want our players happy, whether that’s with us or somewhere else. Just be happy,” Staley encouraged Fulwiley, urging her not to dwell on the past. “You are always going to be a Gamecock. You are always going to be welcomed here. I wish her the best.”
