Congratulations to South Carolina’s standout guard, Te-Hina Paopao, for earning a spot on the 2025 John R. Wooden Award Women’s Late Midseason Top 20 Watch List. This prestigious recognition highlights her exceptional contributions to the Gamecocks’ impressive season.
Paopao’s journey to this accolade has been marked by consistent excellence. Currently, she averages 10.3 points per game, ranking third on the team. Notably, her performance against ranked opponents stands out, with an average of 11.5 points per game, making her the team’s second-leading scorer in such matchups. Her shooting efficiency is commendable, boasting a 50.5% field goal percentage and a 42.0% success rate from beyond the arc in these high-stakes games.
Beyond her scoring, Paopao’s versatility is evident. She contributes 2.7 assists and 2.5 rebounds per game, showcasing her all-around game. Her defensive improvements have also been instrumental in South Carolina’s top-10 national ranking in field goal percentage defense.
Transitioning from Oregon to South Carolina, Paopao has seamlessly integrated into Coach Dawn Staley’s system. Her leadership and experience have been invaluable, guiding the Gamecocks to a stellar 22-2 record and a top-5 national ranking.
Her journey from the West Coast to the Southeast underscores her commitment to growth and excellence. Originally from La Jolla, San Diego, Paopao began her collegiate career at Oregon, where she made an immediate impact. Seeking new challenges and opportunities, she transferred to South Carolina, where she has continued to elevate her game.
Paopao’s dedication to her craft is evident in her diversified offensive approach. Last season, she led the NCAA in 3-point shooting percentage. This year, she’s expanded her repertoire, averaging 4.5 points from 3-point range, 3.6 from the paint, and 1.5 from midrange shots per game.
Her calm demeanor and steady leadership have been pivotal for the Gamecocks. Coach Staley has lauded Paopao’s ability to maintain composure under pressure, providing stability to the team’s offense and serving as a role model for her teammates.
Being named to the Wooden Award Late Midseason Top 20 Watch List places Paopao among the elite players in college basketball. This honor not only recognizes her individual talents but also her significant role in South Carolina’s success this season.
As the season progresses, Paopao’s contributions will be crucial as the Gamecocks aim for deep postseason success. Her blend of experience, skill, and leadership makes her a formidable presence on the court and a key player to watch.
Looking ahead, Paopao’s aspirations extend beyond collegiate basketball. With her impressive resume and skill set, she is poised to make a significant impact at the professional level, with the WNBA draft on the horizon.
In conclusion, Te-Hina Paopao’s recognition on the Wooden Award Watch List is a testament to her hard work, talent, and the integral role she plays in South Carolina’s basketball program. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how her journey continues in the coming months.