Te-Hina Paopao: Gamecocks coach Dawn Staley’s guard for South Carolina women’s basketball

As the South Carolina Gamecocks continue to dominate women’s college basketball, a key player in their success is Te-Hina Paopao, the dynamic guard whose talents have not only added depth to the team but also helped to shape its high-powered offense. Paopao’s journey to South Carolina is one of perseverance, grit, and an unrelenting passion for the game—traits that align perfectly with the culture fostered by head coach Dawn Staley, one of the most respected figures in the sport.

In a program that boasts consistent excellence, national championships, and a legacy of player development, Paopao’s role is undeniably important. As Staley’s guard, Paopao brings a mix of playmaking ability, defensive tenacity, and leadership, all of which are crucial for South Carolina’s continued success in the SEC and at the national level. From her early life to her college career, Paopao has proven herself to be a player worth watching, and her journey is still unfolding with tremendous promise.

Early Life and Basketball Beginnings

Te-Hina Paopao was born and raised in Kahuku, Hawaii, a place known for producing athletic talent across various sports. Growing up in a community where sports were a central part of daily life, Paopao was drawn to basketball from a young age. Basketball culture in Hawaii runs deep, and Te-Hina’s natural athleticism combined with her family’s encouragement helped her excel in the sport.

Her love for the game was nurtured by her father, Hiram Paopao, who played a significant role in developing her skills. His basketball background was critical in shaping her understanding of the game. Paopao also participated in various other sports growing up, but basketball quickly became her primary focus. By the time she was a high school student, she had already caught the attention of scouts across the country.

At Kahuku High School, Paopao was a standout player, earning Hawaii Gatorade Player of the Year honors multiple times. Her versatility, basketball IQ, and leadership were evident early on. Whether it was her scoring ability, passing vision, or defensive tenacity, Paopao had all the traits needed to thrive at the next level. It was clear that she had the potential to compete with the best in the country, and as her high school career progressed, so did her reputation as one of the nation’s top prospects.

High School Success and Recruitment

By her senior year at Kahuku, Paopao had already garnered attention from some of the top women’s basketball programs in the country. Her on-court performances were widely admired, and she continued to grow as a player who could impact every aspect of a game. As a high school star, Paopao averaged 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game, which showcased her well-rounded skills and leadership. Her ability to shoot from the outside, attack the basket, and facilitate for her teammates made her a top recruit.

Despite the fierce competition from programs across the nation, Paopao ultimately decided to commit to the University of Oregon, where she would play under coach Kelly Graves. Her decision to play for Oregon was motivated by the team’s style of play, which emphasized up-tempo basketball, ball movement, and shooting—a style that suited Paopao’s skills perfectly.

At Oregon, Paopao was immediately inserted into a program that was on the rise in women’s college basketball. The Oregon Ducks were a national contender, led by standout players like Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally. Paopao’s arrival added another dynamic to the team’s already potent backcourt, and the stage was set for her to leave a significant mark on Oregon’s program.

College Career: Oregon and the Move to South Carolina

In her freshman season at Oregon, Paopao showed flashes of brilliance, though the team was still adjusting to the departure of Ionescu and other key players. Paopao’s playing style, which combined excellent shooting ability with a strong defensive presence, helped fill the void left by those departures. In her early seasons, she proved to be an effective guard who could play both on and off the ball, contributing not just as a scorer but also as a facilitator.

Paopao’s first two seasons at Oregon were filled with growth, but as with any talented player, there was always a sense that she was destined for even bigger things. In 2023, after the completion of her sophomore year, Paopao made a bold decision: she entered the transfer portal, looking for a new opportunity to continue her basketball journey.

The news of her transfer was met with a great deal of anticipation. While there were several suitors, South Carolina quickly emerged as the frontrunner. Under the leadership of Dawn Staley, the Gamecocks had become one of the most successful programs in women’s college basketball, with back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances and a strong legacy of producing WNBA-caliber players. It was a place where Paopao could thrive, and the fit seemed perfect.

In a statement to the press, Paopao said she felt that South Carolina’s culture, commitment to excellence, and competitive environment would allow her to take her game to the next level. By joining a team already laden with talent, Paopao would be expected to contribute immediately, which was a challenge she eagerly accepted.

Te-Hina Paopao’s Role in South Carolina’s Success

Since arriving at South Carolina, Te-Hina Paopao has become one of the team’s most impactful players. Under Coach Dawn Staley’s leadership, Paopao’s game has continued to evolve, and her experience from Oregon has made her a key asset for the Gamecocks. The program, known for its balance between tough defense and efficient offense, provides the perfect stage for Paopao to showcase her skills.

Scoring and Playmaking Ability

Paopao’s scoring ability is one of the key aspects of her game. While she is certainly capable of hitting from deep, she also has a knack for attacking the basket. Her craftiness with the ball allows her to get to the rim, where she can either finish with finesse or draw fouls and get to the free-throw line. Her basketball IQ and poise in high-pressure situations make her a reliable option in crunch time.

Additionally, Paopao’s playmaking ability is equally as impressive. Her vision on the court allows her to create opportunities not just for herself but for her teammates. With the Gamecocks’ depth in the paint and on the wings, Paopao’s ability to find open players makes her an ideal point guard in a system that requires balance between scoring and playmaking.

Defense and Toughness

A hallmark of Dawn Staley’s coaching philosophy is a commitment to elite defense, and Paopao fits perfectly within that philosophy. As a guard, Paopao brings not just the ability to score but also to lock down opposing players. Her quick hands and anticipation allow her to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers. Paopao’s toughness on defense often leads to critical stops and fast-break opportunities, and her ability to guard multiple positions is invaluable in the up-tempo game that the Gamecocks like to play.

Her defensive effort is often understated, but in a program like South Carolina, it’s a key piece of their overall success. Paopao’s commitment to both sides of the ball makes her a well-rounded player and an asset to the team’s aspirations of competing for NCAA Championships.

Leadership and Composure

Paopao’s leadership on and off the court has been crucial for South Carolina’s development. As a veteran presence, she’s not just a contributor to the box score but also an emotional leader for the team. Paopao’s experience from her time at Oregon, where she played alongside some of the best, has prepared her for a leadership role with the Gamecocks. Whether it’s through vocal leadership in practice or leading by example during games, Paopao’s maturity and poise have helped elevate the overall culture at South Carolina.

Her leadership is particularly evident during key moments in games. In close contests or high-stakes matchups, Paopao remains calm and composed, making the right decisions under pressure. This quality has been vital in South Carolina’s journey to national prominence.

Te-Hina Paopao’s Future in the WNBA

As Paopao continues to flourish under Dawn Staley’s guidance, her future looks bright not only in college basketball but also in the WNBA. With her combination of skill, leadership, and athleticism, she has the potential to be a first-round pick when her time in college is over. South Carolina has long been a pipeline to the WNBA, with players like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Brea Beal making the leap to professional basketball. Paopao’s development under Staley will certainly make her one of the top prospects in her class.

In addition to her basketball prowess, Paopao’s work ethic, drive, and ability to lead will only enhance her chances at making a successful transition to the professional ranks. As a guard who can score, facilitate, and defend, she has the versatility to thrive in the WNBA, where her skills will be in high demand.

 A Key Contributor to South Carolina’s Legacy

Te-Hina Paopao has quickly become an integral part of South Carolina women’s basketball. Under the guidance of Dawn Staley, Paopao has developed into one of the most complete players in college basketball, contributing on both sides of the ball while providing the

leadership needed for a championship-caliber team. Her journey—from her humble beginnings in Hawaii to her rise as a star at Oregon and now South Carolina—demonstrates the dedication and passion she brings to the game. With her future looking bright, Paopao will undoubtedly play a central role in South Carolina’s pursuit of another national championship and further cement her legacy in the game of basketball.