Breaking: South Carolina Star MaLaysia Fulwiley Rejects $1.2M Offer from Alabama, Stays with Gamecocks
In a stunning display of loyalty and commitment, South Carolina guard MaLaysia Fulwiley has reportedly turned down a massive $1.2 million offer from Alabama, choosing instead to remain with the Gamecocks and finish her college career in Columbia. The jaw-dropping offer, believed to be one of the most lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in women’s college basketball, underscores Fulwiley’s rising star power and the fierce competition for elite talent in the sport.
Fulwiley, a 5-foot-10 dynamic playmaker, has been a key figure for head coach Dawn Staley’s squad. Known for her electrifying handles, scoring ability, and fearless play, she has quickly become a fan favorite and an integral part of the Gamecocks’ success.
Alabama’s offer was reportedly part of a broader effort to attract top-tier talent and elevate its women’s basketball program into national contention. However, sources indicate that Fulwiley’s deep ties to South Carolina, where she grew up and became a high school sensation, played a crucial role in her decision.
“My heart is in South Carolina,” Fulwiley reportedly told close associates. “I came here to win championships, develop my game, and represent my state. No amount of money can replace that.”
The decision is a significant win for South Carolina, reinforcing the program’s status as one of the premier destinations in women’s college basketball. With Fulwiley staying put, the Gamecocks remain well-positioned for future success, continuing their dominance in the SEC and beyond.
The high-stakes nature of NIL deals has reshaped college sports, with offers like Alabama’s demonstrating just how competitive recruitment and retention have become. But for now, Fulwiley’s unwavering commitment to South Carolina proves that, for some athletes, legacy and loyalty still matter more than money.
