ESPN NEWS: “From Columbia to the Pros — Coach Dawn Staley Radiates with Pride as Te-Hina Paopao Shines Bright in the WNBA, Delivering a Masterclass Performance That Echoes the Gamecock Spirit, Sparks League-Wide Buzz, and Validates the Power of South Carolina’s Championship Pedigree

🏀🔥 ESPN NEWS: “From Columbia to the Pros — Coach Dawn Staley Radiates with Pride as Te-Hina Paopao Shines Bright in the WNBA, Delivering a Masterclass Performance That Echoes the Gamecock Spirit, Sparks League-Wide Buzz, and Validates the Power of South Carolina’s Championship Pedigree” 🔥🏀

 

In a league defined by elite talent, fierce competition, and non-stop highlight reels, Te-Hina Paopao is rapidly carving out a name that demands attention — and no one is more proud of her than her former coach, Dawn Staley.

 

The South Carolina head coach, a legend in her own right, publicly applauded Paopao following another standout performance in the WNBA this past weekend. The former Gamecock guard dazzled fans and analysts alike, posting an efficient and electric stat line that included 18 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals, while shooting over 50% from the field and commanding the court with the poise of a seasoned veteran.

 

> “That’s Te-Hina,” Staley said with a smile during a post-practice interview in Columbia. “She’s always had that calm confidence, that control of the game, and now the world’s seeing what we’ve known for years. She’s not just a good player — she’s a great one. A star in the making.”

 

 

 

This WNBA breakthrough is no fluke. Te-Hina Paopao, known for her sharp basketball IQ, smooth shooting stroke, and unshakeable demeanor, was a vital piece of South Carolina’s 2023–24 season. Under Staley’s tutelage, she blossomed into a true floor general, orchestrating the offense with precision while embracing the leadership mantle with quiet but undeniable authority.

 

Her ability to hit clutch shots, deliver perfect passes, and lock down defensively made her one of the most complete guards in the college game. It’s no surprise that her transition to the professional level has been smooth — perhaps even faster than expected.

 

🌟 A Star on the Rise, Built by Gamecock Grit

 

Paopao’s recent performances have earned her not just accolades, but also attention from WNBA veterans and broadcasters who’ve been singing her praises during national broadcasts. What separates her from other young players is her composure — that ability to slow the game down, make the right read, and elevate the play of those around her.

 

> “Te-Hina is the kind of player you build a franchise around,” said one WNBA scout. “She does the little things right, doesn’t need the spotlight to dominate, and plays with a maturity that’s rare for a rookie.”

 

 

 

Much of that foundation, Paopao herself credits to her time in Columbia.

 

> “Coach Staley helped me believe in myself,” Paopao shared in a recent interview. “She taught me to be fearless, to trust my instincts, and to lead without apology. Playing at South Carolina was a blessing — it prepared me for this moment.”

 

 

 

🐔 The Gamecock Standard in the WNBA

 

Coach Staley has long been a champion of her players beyond their college careers, and her pride in Paopao fits a larger narrative — the “Gamecock to Pro” pipeline that’s becoming a badge of honor in women’s basketball.

 

With former South Carolina stars like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Zia Cooke already making waves in the WNBA, Paopao is the latest in a growing list of Staley-developed pros redefining what it means to be prepared for the next level.

 

> “We don’t just coach basketball here,” Staley emphasized. “We build pros. We raise leaders. Te-Hina is a living, breathing example of what happens when talent meets discipline and confidence meets preparation.”

 

 

 

Her rise is not only a win for Paopao — it’s another feather in the cap of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program, which continues to cement its legacy as one of the premier talent factories in the country.

 

🗣️ Fans, Teammates, and the League Take Notice

 

Paopao’s performance went viral almost instantly, with fans posting clips of her crossover pull-up jumpers, no-look assists, and disruptive defense. Former teammates congratulated her on social media, while her current WNBA squad shared behind-the-scenes footage of her celebrating with the team.

 

“She’s a baller, plain and simple,” said one teammate. “We love her energy and her vibe. She’s quiet, but she lets her game speak volumes.”

 

With the WNBA season still heating up, many now see Paopao as an early candidate for All-Rookie Team honors — and potentially even an outside contender for Rookie of the Year, depending on how her season continues to unfold.

 

💬 Coach Staley’s Lasting Impact

 

As for Coach Staley, moments like these reinforce why she continues to dedicate herself to the development of young women — not just as athletes, but as leaders.

 

> “I coach so I can watch moments like this unfold,” Staley said. “To see Te-Hina living out her dreams, excelling on the biggest stage — that’s the win. That’s the real championship.”

 

 

 

From the hardwood of Colonial Life Arena to WNBA arenas across the country, Te-Hina Paopao’s star is officially on the rise. And with Coach Staley cheering her on every step of the way, her journey is only just beginning.

 

One thing is certain: The Gamecock legacy is alive and thriving — and Te-Hina Paopao is its next great chapter.