Tennessee Basketball Commits Mia and Mya Pauldo Rely on Sisterhood, Family
Tennessee basketball is welcoming a unique duo that has already captured the hearts of Vol Nation: twin sisters Mia and Mya Pauldo. The pair recently committed to the Lady Vols, bringing not just their undeniable talent on the court, but also their deep bond, unwavering family values, and shared dream of making an impact on one of the most storied programs in women’s college basketball.
The Pauldo sisters’ story is one of perseverance, passion, and partnership, with their sisterhood and family playing a pivotal role in their basketball journey. For Tennessee, their addition is more than a recruiting win—it’s a cultural fit that aligns perfectly with the values of the Lady Vols program.
Mia and Mya Pauldo, both standout guards from New Jersey, have made names for themselves with their complementary skill sets. Mia, known for her court vision and leadership, thrives as a floor general who can control the pace of the game and set her teammates up for success. Mya, on the other hand, is a scoring dynamo with a knack for creating her own shot and attacking the basket with relentless energy.
Despite their individual talents, what truly sets them apart is their chemistry on the court. Years of playing alongside each other have given them an intuitive connection that makes them nearly impossible to guard. From perfectly timed alley-oops to instinctive defensive rotations, the Pauldo twins play as if they share one mind.
“We always know where the other is going to be,” Mya explained in an interview. “It’s like second nature at this point. We don’t even have to call out plays sometimes—we just feel it.”
While their basketball skills are undeniable, Mia and Mya credit their family for shaping who they are, both on and off the court. Growing up in a close-knit household, the twins learned the value of hard work, discipline, and teamwork at an early age.
“Our family is everything to us,” Mia said. “They’ve been there every step of the way—driving us to practices, cheering us on, and reminding us to stay grounded no matter how much success we have.”
Their parents, who played an integral role in fostering their love for basketball, emphasized the importance of education, humility, and mutual support. It’s these values that the twins bring with them to Tennessee, where they hope to not only grow as athletes but also as leaders and role models.
The Lady Vols have a storied history of excellence in women’s basketball, and the addition of Mia and Mya Pauldo fits seamlessly into the program’s culture. Head coach Kellie Harper, herself a former Lady Vol point guard under the legendary Pat Summitt, has emphasized the importance of building a team that values chemistry, resilience, and character as much as talent.
“The Pauldo twins bring something special to the table,” Harper said. “Their bond and understanding of each other’s game are remarkable, and they embody the spirit of what it means to be a Lady Vol.”
For Mia and Mya, joining Tennessee is a dream come true. They grew up watching the Lady Vols dominate on the national stage, inspired by the legacy of players like Tamika Catchings, Candace Parker, and Chamique Holdsclaw. Now, they have the chance to contribute to that legacy while creating one of their own.
As they prepare to step onto the court at Thompson-Boling Arena, the Pauldo twins are focused on making the most of their opportunity. Their goals are clear: to win championships, grow as players and individuals, and honor their family’s sacrifices and support.
“We’re ready to work,” Mya said. “This isn’t just about us—it’s about representing our family, our community, and the Lady Vols tradition. We’re so excited to be part of something bigger than ourselves.”
For Tennessee fans, the arrival of Mia and Mya Pauldo signals a bright future for the Lady Vols program. Their talent, work ethic, and family-first mentality align perfectly with the values that have defined Tennessee basketball for decades.
As the twins rely on their sisterhood and family to guide them, the Pauldo name is poised to become synonymous with success in Knoxville. For Mia and Mya, the journey is just beginning, and the entire Lady Vols community is ready to cheer them on every step of the way.