As the 2025 WNBA Draft approaches, few names have generated as much intrigue as South Carolina guard Te-Hina Paopao. After transferring from Oregon for her senior season, the veteran guard flourished under Dawn Staley, helping lead the Gamecocks to a perfect season and national title.
Paopao’s elite 3-point shooting, veteran presence, and experience on the big stage make her a fascinating prospect for teams looking to add perimeter scoring and composure in the backcourt.
Scouting South Carolina Guard Te-Hina Paopao
While she may not have the eye-popping scoring numbers of other top prospects, Te-Hina Paopao’s efficiency, especially from beyond the arc, has set her apart in the 2024-25 collegiate season.
With several WNBA teams in need of sharpshooting guards who can handle the ball and create space, Paopao has earned strong consideration as a first-round pick, most notably at No. 10 to the Chicago Sky.
Size: 5’9”
Key Stat: 46.8% 3-point shooting (led the NCAA in 2023-24)
Projected Role: Floor-spacing combo guard and secondary playmaker
Strengths
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Elite 3-point shooter: Led the nation in 3-point percentage, hitting 46.8% from deep
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High basketball IQ: Makes smart decisions with the ball and understands spacing well
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Spot-up and off-the-dribble shooting threat: Can shoot off screens, catch-and-shoot, or create her own look
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Veteran leadership: Played five collegiate seasons, including two at powerhouse programs
Areas of Concern
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Overreliance on the 3-ball: 42% of her made shots were from deep; scoring diversity is limited
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Lack of rim pressure: Only 38 free throw attempts in 39 games shows limited aggression in driving
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Inconsistent impact in big games: Scored just 3 points in the NCAA title game on 1-for-6 shooting
Te-Hina Paopao WNBA Draft Outlook
Te-Hina Paopao has one of the most coveted skills in today’s WNBA: elite shooting from beyond the arc. Her 46.8% mark from three last season wasn’t just impressive; it was historic.
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Combine that with her experience, maturity, and low-turnover play, and Paopao becomes a logical fit for several teams looking to stretch the floor and add poise to their backcourt. However, her reliance on the perimeter game and reluctance to get to the free-throw line raise questions about her ability to score at all three levels.
Draft Projection: Potential No. 10 Overall Selection by Chicago Sky
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