🏀 In a Stunning Twist, Kansas State Women’s Basketball Head Coach Jeff Mittie Shocks Dawn Staley by Landing MiLaysia Fulwiley in Bold NIL Power Play

In a shocking move that has turned the women’s college basketball world upside down, Kansas State head coach Jeff Mittie has reportedly secured a blockbuster NIL deal to land MiLaysia Fulwiley, one of Dawn Staley’s brightest stars at South Carolina — a twist no one saw coming.

Just days after Staley made headlines by signing UConn legend Paige Bueckers to a monumental NIL partnership, Coach Mittie answered with a power play of his own — prying away Fulwiley, a dynamic guard whose flashy handles and fearless scoring made her a fan favorite in Columbia.

“It’s the counterpunch of the year,” said one Big 12 analyst. “Everyone was watching South Carolina build a superteam — and now Kansas State just walked off with one of their crown jewels.”

The NIL deal, rumored to include national endorsements, a custom clothing line, and a leadership role in Kansas State’s new #WildcatStandard campaign, reportedly offered Fulwiley both creative freedom and a starring role in the Wildcats’ offense — something she didn’t always have at South Carolina.

Fulwiley, the 2024 SEC Tournament MVP and one of the most electric young guards in the game, is said to be “thrilled” by the opportunity to take center stage in Manhattan.

“MiLaysia is a special talent,” said a source close to the K-State program. “This isn’t just a win for Kansas State — it’s a statement to the entire country.”

Social media lit up immediately following the news, with some fans in disbelief and others praising Mittie for executing what’s now being called the biggest NIL flip in women’s basketball history.

“Dawn Staley took Paige. Jeff Mittie took MiLaysia. College hoops is officially in its villain arc,” one tweet read.

While South Carolina fans are still reeling, sources say Staley respects Fulwiley’s decision and sees it as part of the growing landscape where player empowerment and branding opportunities are front and center.

What’s next in this rapidly escalating NIL rivalry? No one knows. But one thing’s for sure: Kansas State just put everyone on notice.

And the war for women’s college basketball supremacy is officially on.