Kim Mulkey Praises MiLaysia Fulwiley as LSU Starts Strong

The LSU women’s basketball team has made an impressive start to the 2025-26 season, achieving a perfect record of 3-0. Central to this success is MiLaysia Fulwiley, a key transfer from South Carolina. Transitioning from her previous role as a bench player, she has stepped into the starting point guard position, showcasing her talent and determination.

Fulwiley’s Impact on the Team

Fulwiley, recognized as the 2025 SEC Sixth Player of the Year, has quickly adapted to her new environment in Baton Rouge. Head coach Kim Mulkey expressed confidence in her ability to take on this challenge, stating, “I’m going to challenge her to learn the point guard position.” This challenge comes as Mulkey praised Fulwiley’s defensive skills, which have been evident in her performance this season.

Fulwiley’s statistics reflect her impact on the court. She is averaging 15.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and an impressive 4.3 steals per game while shooting 57.1% from the field. Her defensive prowess has drawn attention, particularly after the Tigers’ decisive 115-25 victory over SE Louisiana. “Quick hands,” Mulkey remarked, highlighting Fulwiley’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses. “I wouldn’t want MiLaysia to guard me. Her hands are so quick.”

Adjusting to New Challenges

Reflecting on her transition, Fulwiley noted her eagerness to contribute to the team’s success. “There weren’t any butterflies,” she said after the first game, emphasizing her readiness to start her third year of college basketball. “I think I just wanted to win, honestly. I already know what this team is capable of doing.”

Fulwiley also acknowledged the importance of teamwork, stating, “We practice a lot. We play with each other a lot, so I feel like everybody knew what to expect from each other.” As she settles into her new role, she is focusing on making smart decisions on the court. “I think I’m getting really great at being calm and taking the shot I want and not taking the shots that the defense is forcing me to take,” she explained, attributing her growth to extensive practice.

While LSU has faced relatively straightforward competition thus far, with significant wins against Houston Christian (43-point margin), Southeast Louisiana (89-point margin), and Georgia Southern (48-point margin), the upcoming schedule promises to present tougher challenges. The Tigers will play their next game against Charlotte on November 12, 2025, before taking on higher-ranked teams in December, including a road matchup against No. 7 Duke.

As the season progresses, LSU is set to face No. 4 Texas in January and a highly anticipated game against Fulwiley’s former team, No. 2 South Carolina, on February 14, 2026. With the stakes rising, fans will be eager to see how Fulwiley performs against her old squad.

In light of Fulwiley’s past victories against Mulkey’s teams, the upcoming match promises to be a compelling showdown, with both players and fans alike eager for the action. For now, Fulwiley remains focused on her new journey, aiming to lead LSU to continued success this season.