South Carolina's Te-Hina Paopao, a versatile player, was chosen by the Atlanta Dream as the No. 18 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. The 5-foot-9 guard, originally from California, boasts an impressive high school and college career, including being a McDonald's All-American and a standout player at Oregon. Paopao excelled in scoring and playmaking, leading in 3-point percentage during her time at South Carolina and contributing significantly to the team's successes.
Coach Dawn Staley played a crucial role in Paopao's development, helping her enhance both her offensive and defensive skills. Paopao's defensive capabilities have notably improved, complementing her scoring prowess. With a strong track record in college basketball, Paopao brings a well-rounded game to the Atlanta Dream as she transitions to the professional level.