Imagine stepping into the WNBA as a rookie and landing in a situation so perfect it feels tailor-made for your growth. That’s exactly what happened to Te-Hina Paopao, whose first year in the pros was nothing short of ideal. But here’s where it gets intriguing: how did this former South Carolina standout navigate the challenges of professional basketball, and what’s next for her after a promising debut? Let’s dive in.
Paopao’s journey began when the Atlanta Dream selected her in the second round of the 2025 WNBA Draft. At first glance, joining a team that had struggled for six straight years—failing to secure a winning record from 2019 to 2024—might seem like a risky move. Yet, the Dream’s fortunes shifted dramatically in 2025 under new head coach Karl Smesko, who led the team to a franchise-best 30-14 record. And this is the part most people miss: Paopao wasn’t just a bystander in this turnaround; she was an integral part of a fresh start, learning alongside a revamped roster and coaching staff.
‘It was a very ideal situation for a rookie,’ Paopao told The State. ‘We were all learning on the fly together, and I loved every part of it—the city, the organization, the fans. They took really good care of me.’ Her role off the bench allowed her to absorb wisdom from veterans like Allisha Gray, a fellow Gamecock who had a career-best season. In 43 games, Paopao averaged 5.8 points, 16.7 minutes, and shot 44% from the field, showcasing her potential as a reliable contributor.
But transitioning to the WNBA wasn’t without hurdles. Paopao admits the biggest adjustment was the physicality of the league. ‘You’re playing against grown women who’ve been in the league for years,’ she explained. ‘Their bodies are matured, and you’re just coming out of college.’ To bridge this gap, she dedicated her offseason to strength training, knowing she needed to match the league’s intensity. Bold move? Absolutely. But it’s a testament to her commitment to growth.
While many WNBA players head overseas during the offseason, Paopao chose a different path: Athletes Unlimited (AU) in Nashville, Tennessee. Why? ‘Being able to stay in the States and play in a five-on-five setting was a big draw,’ she said. AU also offered her the chance to connect with other WNBA players, including former South Carolina teammates like Zia Cooke and Alaina Coates. These relationships, Paopao believes, are unreplicable and have been a highlight of her experience.
Through six games with AU, Paopao is averaging 6.2 points, 2.7 assists, and two rebounds per game while shooting 35%. Her focus? Honing her point guard skills and improving her basketball IQ. ‘I’m working on making tough passes, reading the game better, and improving defensively,’ she shared. It’s clear she’s not just resting on her rookie success—she’s actively pushing herself to evolve.
But here’s the controversial question: Is Paopao’s decision to stay in the U.S. instead of playing overseas a missed opportunity, or a smart move for her development? Some argue overseas leagues offer higher competition, while others believe AU’s format provides unique growth opportunities. What do you think? Let’s debate in the comments.
As Paopao takes these next steps, one thing is certain: her rookie year was just the beginning. With her work ethic, humility, and determination, she’s poised to make an even bigger impact in the WNBA. Will she become a starter? A franchise cornerstone? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—Te-Hina Paopao is a name you’ll want to remember.
