BREAKING: Atlanta Dream Select Te-Hina Paopao with No. 18 Overall Pick in 2025 WNBA Draft.
The Atlanta Dream have added a major weapon to their backcourt, selecting Oregon standout Te-Hina Paopao with the 18th overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Known for her smooth shooting stroke and high basketball IQ, Paopao brings instant offensive firepower and veteran poise to a young Dream roster. A five-star recruit out of high school, she began her collegiate career at Oregon before transferring to South Carolina for her final season, where she emerged as one of the most efficient guards in the country. Paopao showcased her elite perimeter shooting, court vision, and ability to lead on both ends of the floor, helping guide the Gamecocks to a deep NCAA Tournament run.
At 5-foot-9, Paopao excels in catch-and-shoot situations but is equally capable of creating off the dribble. She shot over 45% from beyond the arc during her final season and displayed leadership qualities that WNBA scouts praised throughout the pre-draft process. Her experience playing under Dawn Staley only elevated her readiness for the pro level, with many analysts noting her composure, playmaking, and unselfish style of play.
The Dream, who finished just outside of championship contention in 2024, are looking to build around a strong young core. Paopao’s arrival could provide an immediate spark, especially as the team looks to add depth at the guard position. Her ability to stretch defenses and make smart decisions fits perfectly into head coach Tanisha Wright’s system.
While she may not have been a lottery pick, Paopao has all the tools to carve out a significant role in Atlanta. If her collegiate success translates to the next level, the Dream may have landed one of the biggest steals of the 2025 draft.
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