South Carolina’s Dawn Staley Praises Rookie Te-Hina Paopao After Another Jaw-Dropping WNBA Performance With Atlanta Dream Friday Night

South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley has always been known for her keen eye for talent and her unwavering loyalty to her former players. That was on full display once again Friday night as Staley couldn’t hold back her excitement after watching Te-Hina Paopao deliver yet another electrifying performance in the WNBA.

Paopao, the former Gamecocks standout, continues to turn heads at the professional level. After her jaw-dropping performance against the Washington Mystics on June 15 — a game that instantly generated national buzz — the Atlanta Dream rookie once again showed she belongs among the league’s brightest young stars with another breakout showing this week.

On Friday night, Paopao delivered a near-flawless performance, showcasing the poise, playmaking ability, and scoring instincts that defined her collegiate career under Staley’s guidance. Her dazzling display not only impressed Dream fans but also reignited pride within the South Carolina basketball family.

For Staley, watching Paopao seamlessly transition to the next level is more than just a point of pride — it’s validation of the program’s commitment to developing complete players, both on and off the court.

“She’s built for these moments,” Staley posted on social media following Friday night’s game, beaming with pride as Paopao’s name trended across WNBA circles. “Te-Hina’s always had the work ethic, the IQ, and the confidence to shine — I’m just so proud to see her doing it on this stage.”

Paopao, selected by the Atlanta Dream in the first round of the WNBA Draft, has wasted little time proving her worth. While many rookies often endure growing pains adjusting to the physicality and pace of the professional game, Paopao has looked right at home.

Her performance against the Mystics on June 15 was a clear warning to the rest of the league. Paopao erupted for 18 points, five assists, and three steals, orchestrating the Dream offense with veteran-like composure. It was the type of game that not only boosts a rookie’s confidence but forces opposing coaches to take notice.

For Staley, it was a familiar sight. She coached Paopao to success during her final collegiate season in Columbia, watching her grow into a floor general capable of changing the game with both her shot and her vision. That same confidence and skill set has clearly carried over to the pros.

Friday night, Paopao backed up the hype with another stellar showing. The rookie guard finished with 16 points, six assists, and a trio of three-pointers, leading Atlanta to a statement victory. More importantly, she controlled the game’s tempo, dictated offensive flow, and made clutch plays when the Dream needed them most.

Staley, who built South Carolina into a national powerhouse with multiple Final Fours and a pair of national championships, takes immense pride in seeing her former players thrive beyond college. But her bond with Paopao is particularly special.

Te-Hina Paopao transferred to South Carolina after spending the early portion of her college career at Oregon. Joining the Gamecocks was a pivotal decision that allowed her to develop under one of the game’s greatest minds in Staley. It also placed her in an environment of championship expectations, elite competition, and constant accountability.

That foundation is paying off now.

“I knew she would thrive under pressure because she’s been battle-tested,” Staley said in a recent interview when asked about Paopao’s transition to the pros. “She came to South Carolina, embraced our culture, embraced the grind, and she left better prepared for this moment.”

Paopao’s time with the Gamecocks was defined by more than just statistics. Yes, she delivered on the court — averaging double figures in scoring and providing critical leadership in big moments — but it was her intangibles that set her apart. Her ability to stay composed, make the right reads, and elevate her teammates quickly endeared her to Staley, her coaching staff, and fans across the SEC.

Now, those same traits are turning heads in the WNBA.

Atlanta, a franchise eager to return to playoff prominence, has leaned on Paopao’s maturity and versatility early in the season. The Dream’s coaching staff has praised her work ethic and adaptability, noting how quickly she’s absorbed the system and embraced the pro lifestyle.

“Te-Hina’s a natural leader,” Dream head coach Tanisha Wright told reporters after Friday’s game. “You can see her confidence grow with every possession. She’s poised, unselfish, and she makes winning plays — everything we hoped for when we drafted her.”

For Gamecocks fans, Paopao’s success is another shining example of South Carolina’s pipeline to the pros. Under Staley’s leadership, the program has produced numerous WNBA standouts, including stars like A’ja Wilson, Aliyah Boston, and Zia Cooke. Now, Paopao is quickly adding her name to that list.

And Staley, as always, remains her biggest supporter.

“She represents everything we preach at South Carolina,” Staley wrote after Friday night’s game. “Hard work, selflessness, mental toughness — Te-Hina’s journey is inspiring, and I know she’s just getting started.”

Paopao’s impact extends beyond the stat sheet. Her presence has provided a spark for Atlanta, energizing the fanbase and bringing a level of competitiveness that aligns with the franchise’s goals.

For South Carolina’s current roster, Paopao serves as living proof that the lessons learned in Columbia translate to the highest levels of the sport. Staley, who often emphasizes personal growth, accountability, and preparation, views her former players’ success as a reflection of the program’s broader mission.

“It’s not just about winning games at South Carolina,” Staley explained during a recent appearance on ESPN. “It’s about preparing young women to be successful in life — whether that’s on the basketball court, in business, or wherever their path leads. Watching Te-Hina excel reminds me why we do this.”

As for Paopao, she remains grounded despite the early praise and attention. The rookie guard has consistently credited her college experience — and Staley’s influence — for helping her adjust to the challenges of the WNBA.

“Coach Staley taught me how to be disciplined, how to embrace tough love, and how to believe in myself,” Paopao shared after the win Friday. “She prepared me for this, and I’m grateful every day for that.”

With each passing game, it’s becoming clear that Te-Hina Paopao is more than ready for the moment. Her combination of skill, composure, and competitiveness makes her a key building block for the Dream and a rising star in the league.

And as always, Dawn Staley will be watching — cheering, guiding, and celebrating her former player’s success from afar.

“She’s making all of us proud,” Staley concluded. “Atlanta got a good one, and the world’s starting to see it.”