You Belong!’ Dawn Staley Sends Heartfelt Message to Te-Hina Paopao After Making WNBA Roster
Dawn Staley, the celebrated head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, has once again shown her unwavering support and pride for her former player, Te-Hina Paopao. After an impressive collegiate career, Paopao has secured a coveted spot on the Atlanta Dream’s opening-day roster for the 2025 WNBA season.
Paopao was selected 18th overall in the second round of the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Dream, marking a significant milestone in her basketball journey. The 5-foot-9 guard transferred to South Carolina from Oregon for her final two seasons of college ball, where she blossomed into a key contributor and helped lead the Gamecocks to great success.
In a heartfelt social media message, Staley expressed her excitement and pride for Paopao’s achievement. “Congrats Pao,” Staley wrote. “You look comfortable! You look like you belong! You look like a dream come true! Way to make us all proud—your family, and it’s a lot of them, and of course @GamecockWBB and FAMs!! We can’t wait to see you play! GOD on 3!”
Paopao’s road to the WNBA is a story of resilience and hard work. After spending two seasons at Oregon, she made the decision to transfer to South Carolina, where she quickly became a vital part of the team’s lineup. Her sharpshooting skills stood out, especially her exceptional three-point shooting percentage, which hovered around 48.6%, making her one of the best marksmen in the Southeastern Conference.
Her efforts culminated in a national championship win with South Carolina in 2024, and she earned Second-Team All-American honors from the United States Basketball Writers Association. Paopao’s ability to score from beyond the arc, combined with her playmaking and leadership on the court, made her a standout player and a natural fit for the professional level.
The Atlanta Dream, under new head coach Karl Smesko, are building a team that emphasizes perimeter shooting and spacing on offense. Paopao’s elite three-point shooting skills and basketball IQ align perfectly with this strategy. Her adaptability and experience will be key as she transitions into the WNBA and helps the Dream develop a more dynamic offensive approach.
Staley’s message to Paopao highlights the strong bond between coach and player. Throughout her time at South Carolina, Staley has been more than just a coach — she has been a mentor and advocate, fostering a sense of family and community among her players. Her pride in Paopao’s accomplishment reflects the deep trust and respect they share.
As Paopao begins her professional career, she carries with her the lessons and values instilled by Staley and the Gamecocks program. South Carolina’s tradition of excellence continues through its alumni, and Paopao’s success serves as a shining example of the program’s commitment to developing not only skilled athletes but also leaders both on and off the court.
Fans of women’s basketball and supporters of the Gamecocks eagerly await Paopao’s debut in the WNBA. With Staley’s endorsement and the backing of her family and teammates, Paopao is poised to make an immediate impact in the league. Her journey serves as a testament to perseverance, talent, and the power of strong mentorship.
As she steps onto the professional stage, Te-Hina Paopao embodies the spirit of hard work and determination. Her story is not just about making a roster; it’s about proving that with dedication and support, you truly belong at the highest level of the game.
