Dawn Staley details the ‘battle’ of coaching South Carolina standout MyLysia Fulvili

Don Staley’s South Carolina team is set to begin the 2024-2025 season.

The reigning NCAA national champion has won three straight to start the year, including Thursday’s 92-60 victory over Coppin State.

Sophomore guard Milesia Fulvili led the Gamecox with 23 points on 9-13 shooting (including four 3-pointers) in just 25 minutes of action.

Many Gamecocks fans are surprised that Fulvili is not starting for Staley’s team and disappointed that she clear backup to Raven Johnson (who scored 0 points in 15 minutes played on Thursday); not only because Fulvili plays beautifully, but she has a vibrant and exciting playing style that captivates the audience.

While Staley isn’t always a fan of Fulvili’s outburst, she alluded to it during a media call on Thursday.

“It’s a battle with (MiLaysia),” Staley said, WACH Fox reporter Amanda Poole. “She understands. She really understands.

“I mean, she’s really dynamic. She’s a dynamic guard,” Staley continued. “I thought for the most part she was as thin as can be (during Thursday’s game), played great. And sometimes she couldn’t have a snack. But if she can play as bad as she did today, I can eat up what she’s trying to do.”

Staley later added, “So I’m giving (Fulwillia) some leeway. But I also let her know during the game, “Your game was great.” Effectively, the game slows down for you…and then she worries about making a play…that really gets her in trouble.

“We want her to score. Don’t try to make a spectacular pass.”

Despite her flashy style, Staley won’t be able to keep Fulvili off the floor for long if she continues to perform the way she did Thursday.