Te-Hina Paopao and Sania Feagin, two former standouts on the South Carolina women’s basketball team, have made it through the preseason and are now officially on the WNBA rosters!

In a world where elite basketball talent is consistently emerging, few stories stand out as much as that of Te-Hina Paopao and Sania Feagin, two former players from the South Carolina women’s basketball team who have made their mark in the WNBA. As the 2025 season draws near, these two players have completed an impressive preseason journey, securing their spots on WNBA rosters. Their path to the WNBA is a testament to their dedication, skill, and resilience, reflecting not only the strength of the South Carolina program but also the growing impact of women’s basketball.

Te-Hina Paopao and Sania Feagin both came into the world of basketball with a fire that would soon propel them to heights they had once only dreamed of. Though they had different paths in basketball, their ultimate destination was always clear: the WNBA.

Te-Hina Paopao, a guard known for her court vision and leadership, began her basketball journey long before she ever stepped onto the hardwood at the University of South Carolina. Born in Oregon, Paopao quickly rose through the ranks as one of the top high school basketball players in the state. Her game was defined by her playmaking ability, her calm demeanor, and her knack for making her teammates better.

Paopao’s vision on the floor was unparalleled, and her leadership qualities made her the type of player any coach would want to build a team around. Her ability to control the tempo and make crucial decisions under pressure was evident from her high school years, and this skill only grew once she arrived at South Carolina.

On the other hand, Sania Feagin was known for her defensive prowess and rebounding ability. Standing tall as a force in the post, Feagin’s journey began in Georgia, where her imposing presence in the paint made her an immediate standout. While she was still developing her offensive game, her ability to dominate on defense and in the rebounding department was unmatched at the high school level.

Once she joined South Carolina, Feagin’s work ethic became a key factor in her development. Under the guidance of head coach Dawn Staley, who has built a reputation for developing some of the best players in women’s basketball, Feagin was able to refine her offensive skills while maintaining her status as one of the most dominant defenders and rebounders in the game.

South Carolina has long been recognized as one of the premier programs in women’s basketball, and both Paopao and Feagin benefited from playing under coach Dawn Staley. The Gamecocks are known for their relentless defense, team-first mentality, and ability to develop players at every position. For Paopao and Feagin, this environment was the perfect stage to hone their skills and prepare for the next level.

As a point guard, Paopao quickly became one of the team’s most valuable assets. She was not only responsible for setting up her teammates but also took on the responsibility of scoring when necessary. Her ability to control the flow of the game was one of her most impressive traits, and it helped South Carolina dominate in one of the most competitive conferences in the country. Under Staley’s tutelage, Paopao’s leadership qualities and basketball IQ blossomed, leading to her becoming one of the top guards in the country.

Paopao’s time with South Carolina also helped her develop the mental toughness required for the WNBA. The pressure of playing on a national stage for a championship-caliber team gave her the opportunity to grow in ways she never imagined. Her ability to handle adversity, particularly in high-pressure moments, would prove to be crucial as she transitioned to professional basketball.

Feagin’s impact on the South Carolina program was felt immediately. While not necessarily known for her scoring ability, Feagin’s defensive mindset and her tenacity on the boards made her a crucial part of South Carolina’s success. Over time, Feagin became known as one of the most intimidating defenders in college basketball, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best players. Her ability to guard multiple positions, along with her rebounding skills, set her apart as one of the premier forwards in women’s college basketball.

Feagin’s relentless work ethic and commitment to getting better paid off during her time at South Carolina. While her role as a defensive specialist initially defined her, she gradually expanded her offensive game, developing a mid-range jumper and showing glimpses of post moves that would translate well to the professional level.

The transition from college basketball to the WNBA is a difficult one. For many players, the preseason is a time of immense pressure, where every practice and every exhibition game can make or break a career. The WNBA’s high level of competition means that only the most prepared players earn roster spots, and Paopao and Feagin were ready for the challenge.

Both players entered the preseason with the goal of proving they belonged at the highest level. They each had their own unique challenges to face during this period, but their experiences with South Carolina, where they were pushed to be their best every day, gave them the confidence to succeed.

For Paopao, the transition to the WNBA was all about adjusting to the faster, more physical style of play. In the WNBA, every player is a standout, and the level of competition is relentless. Paopao quickly had to prove she could not only run the offense but also defend against some of the best guards in the world. Her ability to control the tempo and make quick decisions under pressure was critical, as was her ability to show she could knock down shots when needed.

Her basketball IQ, developed during her time at South Carolina, was one of the key reasons she was able to earn her spot on a WNBA roster. Coaches saw her potential as a leader, and her confidence grew with each preseason game.

Feagin’s journey was a bit different. Known for her physicality and defense, Feagin had to prove that she could bring that same energy to the WNBA. While her offensive game still needed refining, her ability to defend at the highest level became her ticket to making a roster. Feagin quickly earned the respect of her coaches and teammates with her relentless work ethic and her defensive capabilities.

As the preseason unfolded, Feagin showcased her ability to guard multiple positions, rebound at a high rate, and make life difficult for opposing players. She also worked hard to refine her offensive game, adding a more consistent jump shot to her arsenal. Her hustle and defensive tenacity eventually earned her a spot on a WNBA team.

After an intense and rigorous preseason, both Paopao and Feagin found themselves officially added to WNBA rosters. For both players, this achievement marked the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication.

Paopao’s skill set is well-suited to the WNBA’s fast-paced style of play. As a versatile guard with elite vision and the ability to create for others, she has the potential to be a star in the league. Her journey from South Carolina to the WNBA has just begun, and the sky is the limit for her. Her experience as a floor general will serve her well in the professional ranks, and she is expected to make an immediate impact in the league.

Feagin’s opportunity in the WNBA speaks volumes about her perseverance and growth as a player. While her time at South Carolina was defined by her defense and rebounding, she has worked tirelessly to round out her game. Her size, strength, and defensive versatility give her a unique edge in the league, and she will likely carve out a niche as a key defensive player. The WNBA offers her a chance to showcase her improvements on offense while continuing to excel in her area of expertise: stopping opponents and securing rebounds.

Te-Hina Paopao and Sania Feagin have made it through one of the toughest hurdles in women’s basketball: securing a spot on a WNBA roster. Their journey from South Carolina to the professional ranks is a testament to their resilience, work ethic, and undeniable talent. Both players have bright futures ahead of them, and the WNBA will be a better league with their presence.

As they continue to develop their games and make their mark on the WNBA, Paopao and Feagin are more than just examples of individual success—they are proof of the strength of the South Carolina women’s basketball program and its ability to produce world-class talent. Whether it’s Paopao’s court vision or Feagin’s defensive prowess, these two players are poised to make a lasting impact on the WNBA for years to come.