Te-Hina Paopao’s journey from Oregon to South Carolina has transformed her into the makings of a future WNBA Draft pick

The graduate senior already has a laundry list of accolades, but still has more to accomplish this season and beyond

Te-Hina Paopao’s journey from Oregon to South Carolina is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, adaptability, and ambition. Over the course of her basketball career, Paopao has emerged as one of the most promising prospects for the WNBA Draft, and her path—marked by pivotal moments, strategic decisions, and personal growth—reflects both her athletic talent and mental fortitude.

### Early Life and College Beginnings

Te-Hina Paopao was born into a basketball family in California, but her roots trace back to the Pacific Islands, where her heritage shaped both her worldview and her approach to the game. Raised in an environment where family was central and the cultural values of hard work, discipline, and respect were taught from an early age, Paopao found her passion for basketball at a young age. Her father, a former player himself, was a pivotal influence, introducing her to the game and helping her develop the skills that would later propel her to national attention.

Paopao’s high school career at La Jolla Country Day in California was a launching pad for her future success. By the time she graduated, she was ranked as one of the top point guards in the country, attracting the attention of prestigious college programs. In 2020, she made the decision to commit to the University of Oregon, one of the premier women’s basketball programs in the nation, led by head coach Kelly Graves.

At Oregon, Paopao made an immediate impact as a freshman, showcasing her sharp shooting, court vision, and leadership abilities. She was recognized for her poise and ability to control the tempo of the game, traits that made her a perfect fit for Oregon’s up-tempo, high-scoring system. During her first season, Paopao was named to the All-Pac-12 Freshman Team and quickly became a cornerstone of the Ducks’ backcourt. However, despite her success, the road ahead would not be without obstacles.

### The Transfer Decision: From Oregon to South Carolina

In 2023, after spending two seasons at Oregon, Paopao made the decision to transfer to the University of South Carolina. This choice marked a significant turning point in her career and ultimately set the stage for her development into a future WNBA prospect.

South Carolina, under the leadership of legendary head coach Dawn Staley, was not only one of the top programs in women’s college basketball but also a place known for its intense training, strong team culture, and national championship pedigree. The Gamecocks had recently won the NCAA title in 2022 and were poised to be a dominant force in women’s basketball for years to come. For Paopao, the decision to transfer was about more than just joining a winning program—it was about challenging herself at the highest level and honing her skills under the guidance of a coach who had a proven track record of developing WNBA talent.

The transition to South Carolina wasn’t an easy one. Paopao had to adjust to a different playing style, a new set of teammates, and a more intense level of competition. The Gamecocks played a physically demanding, defense-first style of basketball that demanded players to be both skilled and tough. However, Paopao embraced the challenge. The rigorous environment at South Carolina helped refine her game in ways she hadn’t anticipated. Under Staley’s tutelage, Paopao’s defense, playmaking, and basketball IQ soared to new heights.

### Growth and Development: A Rising Star

At South Carolina, Paopao’s skills evolved rapidly. She became known for her ability to stretch the floor with her three-point shooting, while also growing into a more dynamic playmaker. Her defense, once considered a weakness, became one of her most notable assets. The Gamecocks’ emphasis on defensive pressure and physicality pushed her to develop a more well-rounded game, with Paopao becoming a stronger on-ball defender and a more aggressive player in transition.

Her ability to adapt to this new style was a defining factor in her development. Paopao thrived in South Carolina’s fast-paced offense, where she was able to use her court vision and passing skills to create opportunities for her teammates. Her leadership qualities became even more apparent as she took on a larger role within the team. She had to balance the expectations of being a playmaker while learning how to integrate into a squad full of established stars.

Paopao’s time at South Carolina also gave her the opportunity to compete in the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in women’s basketball. Every game was a test of her abilities, as she faced top-tier defenses and elite competition night in and night out. This exposure to high-level basketball only helped to solidify her status as one of the top prospects for the WNBA Draft.

### Te-Hina Paopao’s WNBA Potential

By the time Paopao finished her final season with the Gamecocks, her evolution as a player was complete. She had developed into one of the most complete guards in women’s college basketball, with a well-rounded game that included an improved jump shot, elite-level passing, and a tenacious defensive mindset. Her ability to impact the game in multiple areas, combined with her leadership and maturity, made her a legitimate candidate for the WNBA Draft.

As a WNBA prospect, Paopao brings a unique combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ to the table. Standing at 5’9″, she has the versatility to play both guard positions and could fit into a number of roles at the next level. Her scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, will make her an immediate threat for any WNBA team. At the same time, her playmaking and ability to facilitate an offense will allow her to contribute as a floor general. Paopao’s defense is another area that will make her stand out to WNBA scouts, as she has the ability to guard multiple positions and disrupt opposing offenses with her length and quickness.

Her work ethic, competitive drive, and passion for the game have already made her a leader in the locker room, and those traits will serve her well as she enters the WNBA. Moreover, Paopao’s ability to thrive under pressure—demonstrated by her time at both Oregon and South Carolina—will be key as she transitions to professional basketball.

### Looking Ahead: The WNBA Draft and Beyond

As Paopao’s college career comes to a close, her future in the WNBA is brighter than ever. She has already proven that she can succeed at the highest levels of competition, and her time in South Carolina, in particular, has prepared her for the physical and mental demands of professional basketball. While the draft is always unpredictable, Paopao’s combination of skill, leadership, and work ethic has positioned her as a player who could make an immediate impact in the WNBA.

Her journey from Oregon to South Carolina has been more than just a change of scenery—it has been a transformative process that has shaped her into the player she is today. Te-Hina Paopao is no longer just a talented young guard with potential. She is a complete player, ready to take the next step in her basketball career and leave her mark on the WNBA.

Her story is one of growth, resilience, and perseverance, and as she continues her journey, it’s clear that Te-Hina Paopao is on the path to becoming one of the future stars of women’s professional basketball.