MiLaysia Fulwiley is already making her mark at LSU, but not without navigating the high expectations of her legendary coach. The former South Carolina standout, who transferred to join Kim Mulkey’s Tigers, has been named to the prestigious Nancy Lieberman Award Preseason Watchlist.
This early recognition places her among the nation’s elite point guards, yet her path to a starting role remains a work in progress. This creates a compelling dynamic as one of college basketball’s most exciting players finds her footing on a retooled roster.
How Is MiLaysia Fulwiley Already Making an Impact at LSU?
LSU guard Fulwiley has earned early national attention, securing a place on the Nancy Lieberman Award Preseason Watchlist. The list highlights the top 20 point guards in women’s college basketball. Now in its 27th year, the award honors the nation’s most complete point guard, one who reflects the floor leadership and creativity of Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman.
The recognition cements Fulwiley as a major force in women’s college basketball this season. Her teammate, Flau’jae Johnson, celebrated the achievement by sharing an Instagram Story that featured Fulwiley’s Nancy Lieberman Award Watchlist graphic with the caption, “@laywitdabutter yo world twin ✌️.”
Fulwiley joins a short list in LSU history. The only Tiger to win the award was Temeka Johnson, who was recently inducted into the LSU Athletics Hall of Fame. At 5-foot-10, Fulwiley arrived in Baton Rouge as one of the most dynamic offensive guards in the country after transferring from SEC rival South Carolina during the offseason.
During her two years with the Gamecocks, she came off the bench in 74 of her 77 appearances, producing averages of 11.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
In her time at South Carolina, she helped guide the team to back-to-back national title game appearances, winning one championship as a freshman. Her strong performances also earned her the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year award, a selection to the 2024 SEC All-Freshman Team, and SEC Tournament MVP honors.
Why Is Kim Mulkey Demanding Growth Despite Fulwiley’s Potential?
Despite this national praise, Head Coach Kim Mulkey is taking a deliberate approach with her new star. In LSU’s first exhibition matchup against Mississippi College, Fulwiley posted 17 points, four assists, and four rebounds in a 146-48 victory. However, she did not start in that contest, a decision Mulkey explained after the game.
“God blessed [Fulwiley] with speed and quickness. Blessed her with unbelievable hand-eye coordination,” Mulkey said. “Learning point guard is probably a little challenging right now, because she has always been the recipient of the pass on the wing. And now… I want Lay to be able to just be able to go to either position comfortably.”
Mulkey added that Fulwiley’s defensive pressure and stamina would be key as she learns to handle longer stretches of play. The coach also noted a deep shot Fulwiley took, reminding her to “understand circumstances in the game.” To manage this development, Mulkey gradually moves Fulwiley between point guard and off-guard positions to maintain her creative spark without overwhelming her.
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“As you’d expect when you haven’t played point guard at this level, I’m sure her head is spinning,” Mulkey told On3. “But I don’t want to take her away from the off guard either, because she’s so good at improvising during the game and making spectacular plays.” That adjustment has demanded significant effort from the talented guard. “She’s easy to coach, and she said it best: ‘I’ve never worked this hard in my life,’” Mulkey shared.
Fortunately, Fulwiley’s growth will be supported by LSU’s deep backcourt, which includes Mikaylah Williams, Flau’jae Johnson, Jada Richard, and Divine Bourrage. As she settles into this dual role, her ability to read defenses and direct the offense could redefine how the Tigers play this season.
LSU opens its season on Nov. 4 against Houston Christian. The team will face Fulwiley’s former squad, South Carolina, on Feb. 14 before closing the regular season on March 1 against Mississippi State.