LEGENDARY GAMECOCK COACH DAWN STALEY SHOWERS PRAISE ON FORMER STAR TE-HINA PAOPAO AS THE WNBA ROOKIE CATCHES FIRE WITH ANOTHER ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE THAT HAS THE LEAGUE TAKING NOTICE

FROM COLUMBIA TO THE W: LEGENDARY GAMECOCK COACH DAWN STALEY SHOWERS PRAISE ON FORMER STAR TE-HINA PAOPAO AS THE WNBA ROOKIE CATCHES FIRE WITH ANOTHER ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE THAT HAS THE LEAGUE TAKING NOTICE

 

June 23, 2025 – Columbia, SC

 

The WNBA may be filled with seasoned veterans and household names, but there’s a new spark electrifying the league—and her name is Te-Hina Paopao.

 

Following yet another sensational performance from beyond the arc, where the rookie guard drained four of five three-point attempts and flirted with a career-high in points, South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley had nothing but admiration—and a little emotion—when discussing her former player’s professional breakout.

 

> “She’s making it look easy,” Staley said with a smile in a post-practice interview Monday. “But trust me, there’s nothing easy about what she’s doing out there. Te-Hina is showing the world exactly what we already knew in Columbia—she’s a killer from deep, she’s calm under pressure, and she’s just getting started.”

 

 

 

 

—

 

🔥 Rookie Rising: Paopao’s Sharpshooting Stuns the League

 

In a league known for its tough defense and elite perimeter players, Paopao is standing out for her composure, efficiency, and confidence. The rookie sensation connected on four of her five three-point attempts in her latest outing, pushing her season average from deep to a jaw-dropping 47.3%.

 

Her shooting stroke has been described as “automatic,” and commentators have compared her poise to that of long-time pros. The rookie guard finished the game with 18 points, 4 assists, and 2 steals, tying her career-high in points in the process.

 

> “She’s playing like a vet out there,” said one WNBA analyst on ESPN. “Her decision-making, her shot selection—it’s elite. We’re witnessing a star bloom in real time.”

 

 

 

 

—

 

🏀 From Gamecock to Game-Changer

 

Paopao transferred to South Carolina in her final year of college eligibility and made an immediate impact under Coach Staley’s leadership. Known for her smooth shooting stroke and high basketball IQ, she was a crucial part of the Gamecocks’ deep NCAA tournament run last season.

 

While her time in Columbia was short, her impact was immense.

 

> “Te-Hina came in, embraced our culture, led by example, and elevated our guard play,” Staley recalled. “And now, watching her shine on the biggest stage, it just makes me proud—not just as a coach, but as someone who respects her journey.”

 

 

 

 

—

 

🇺🇸 Built for the Moment

 

Paopao’s poise isn’t just luck. A former USA Basketball standout and McDonald’s All-American, she’s been groomed for the spotlight. What’s becoming clear now is that she thrives in it.

 

Despite the intensity of the professional game, Paopao has shown an unshakable calm, even in clutch moments. Coaches around the league have praised her ability to remain steady under pressure and make smart decisions in high-leverage situations.

 

> “She plays like she’s been here before,” said her WNBA head coach. “She doesn’t flinch. That’s rare for a rookie.”

 

 

 

 

—

 

🗣️ Dawn Staley’s Voice Carries Weight

 

When Dawn Staley talks, the basketball world listens. As one of the most respected voices in both college and international hoops, her praise for Paopao is not to be taken lightly. And she isn’t shy about letting others know just how high she thinks her former player can go.

 

> “She’s going to be one of the faces of the league, and sooner than people think,” Staley declared. “What’s more important is that she’s doing it the right way—working hard, staying humble, and making everyone around her better.”

 

 

 

 

—

 

🌟 What’s Next for Te-Hina?

 

If Paopao continues at this pace, she’ll not only be in the conversation for WNBA Rookie of the Year but could also find herself a dark horse for an All-Star reserve spot, depending on how her team performs in the standings.

 

Fans across the country—and especially in Columbia—are rallying behind her.

 

On social media, #PaopaoPower has started trending, with fans praising her clutch performances and highlight-worthy threes. Her jersey sales have spiked in the last two weeks, and endorsements may not be far behind.

 

 

—

 

🏁 Final Take: A Future Icon in the Making

 

Te-Hina Paopao’s journey from Oregon to South Carolina and now to the WNBA has been a story of perseverance, growth, and brilliance. With each game, she’s writing a new chapter—one that South Carolina fans and Coach Dawn Staley are watching with pride and awe.

 

In a league searching for its next generation of stars, Paopao has officially arrived—with a jump shot as smooth as silk, a mindset built for greatness, and the full endorsement of one of the most legendary coaches in women’s basketball history.

 

“This is only the beginning,” Staley concluded. “Trust me—she’s just warming up.”