South Carolina Women’s’ Basketball Star Te-Hina Paopao joins The Coop for this week’s brand-new episode. Te-Hina is a standout point guard and national champion! This week, she shares her incredible journey—from overcoming injuries early in her career to becoming a key player in the SEC. She opens up about her Samoan heritage, how it shapes her identity, and how she inspires the next generation of athletes. Te-Hina also reflects on her transition to South Carolina, the grueling training, and the unforgettable moments that helped define the Gamecocks’ championship season.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

03:14 - New Tattoo

04:19 - Samoan Heritage

06:02 - Matching Tattoo with Kylee Watson

07:40 - Choosing Basketball as a Career

09:24 - Sisterhood in Basketball

13:18 - Relationship with Kelsey Plum

18:08 - Freshman Year Experience

19:57 - ACL Recovery Journey

23:44 - Choosing Oregon for College

26:55 - Entering the Transfer Portal

27:55 - Life in the Transfer Portal

30:36 - First Impressions of Team and Campus

33:16 - Getting Comfortable with the Team

35:42 - Recognizing a Special Team

37:34 - Experience in the SEC

41:24 - Relationship with Brothers

44:10 - Returning for 5th Year

48:45 - Best Advice

49:54 - Alternative Career Path

52:28 - Outro