In an exciting announcement for South Carolina women’s basketball fans, sophomore MiLaysia Fulwiley has been named a finalist for the prestigious Dawn Staley Award. This recognition is given to the top NCAA Division I women’s basketball player, celebrating talent, skill, competitiveness, and the ability to excel on the court. Fulwiley’s outstanding performance throughout the season has earned her a spot among the best in college basketball.
The Dawn Staley Award Finalists
The competition for the Dawn Staley Award includes an impressive group of young athletes. Alongside Fulwiley, the other finalists are:
- Paige Bueckers from UConn
- Juju Watkins from Southern Cal
- Hannah Hidalgo from Notre Dame
Each of these players has made significant contributions to their teams and showcased exceptional skills during the season.
Fulwiley’s Impressive Stats
MiLaysia Fulwiley has had a remarkable season, averaging 12.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.8 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Her ability to contribute on both ends of the floor has been vital for the Gamecocks. Fulwiley’s strong play, particularly during the SEC season, has seen her improve her defensive performance, making her a standout player.
Acknowledged for Her Contributions
For her hard work and achievements, Fulwiley was recognized as the SEC Sixth Woman of the Year and was also named to the All-SEC Second Team. Additionally, her outstanding efforts led to her being selected for the SEC Tournament All-Tournament Team. These accolades highlight not only her individual talents but also the impact she has made on her team throughout the season.
What This Award Means
The Dawn Staley Award is named after the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks, who herself is a legendary player with an illustrious career. This award not only acknowledges individual skill but also emphasizes the spirit of competition in women’s college basketball. Being named a finalist is a tremendous honor for Fulwiley and reflects the dedication she has put into her game.
NCAA Tournament Hopes
As the South Carolina Gamecocks look forward to the NCAA Tournament, the excitement grows with the announcement of tournament seedings coming soon on March 16th. With Fulwiley’s nomination for the Dawn Staley Award, the team’s hopes of making a deep run in the tournament are heightened. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how far Fulwiley and her teammates will go in this year’s highly competitive tournament.
In Summary
This year has been one of growth and achievement for MiLaysia Fulwiley and the South Carolina Gamecocks. Being named a finalist for the Dawn Staley Award is just one of the many highlights of her season. As the Gamecocks prepare for the NCAA tournament, all eyes will be on Fulwiley, who continues to inspire with her hard work and dedication to the game.