Te-Hina Paopao hails from a family deeply immersed in the world of sports, fostered by the unwavering passion of her parents.
Her journey into the world of athleticism commenced at an early age when she found inspiration watching her brother excel in football.
Fueled by a flourishing interest in sports, Te-Hina embarked on a dedicated training regimen under the watchful guidance of her father.
Te-Hina Paopao, an accomplished guard, graces the senior class of the South Carolina Gamecocks with her formidable skills and undeniable talent.
Having transferred from Oregon, she brings a wealth of experience and prowess to the Gamecocks.
She is eligible to compete during the 2023-24 academic year with up to two years of eligibility.
She boasts an impressive resume as a three-time All-Pac-12 selection, securing two first-team selections.
Te-Hina Paopao Parents: Legacy of Champions
Te-Hina’s upbringing was deeply rooted in a family immersed in sports, where athletic achievements were a common thread interwoven through generations.
Her journey has been enriched by the unwavering support and inspiration provided by her parents, Paul and Diana Paopao.
Her mother, Diana Paopao, left an indelible mark on the softball field at San Clemente, showcasing a prowess that undoubtedly influenced Te-Hina’s early connection to the world of sports.
On the football front, Te-Hina’s father, Paul Paopao, etched his legacy with legendary coach Herb Meyer at Oceanside and El Camino of Oceanside.
Notably, he contributed to the 1985 team’s remarkable 13-0 season triumph and securing the CIF San Diego Section championship.
The Paopao family’s association with Coach Meyer extended beyond familial ties, with six of Te-Hina’s uncles and several cousins donning the colors of Oceanside during Meyer’s tenure, an extraordinary testament to the family’s deep-rooted athletic tradition.
Te-Hina’s siblings further adorned the family’s athletic tapestry.
Her sister, Tiare, distinguished herself as a standout in softball and basketball.
Tofi, Te-Hina’s brother, commanded the football field as a quarterback.
He led his team to the San Diego Section football finals for an impressive four consecutive years.
Isaia, another sibling, showcased his skills on the gridiron as the starting safety for the Riverside City College state championship team.
Even the youngest member of the Paopao family, Iosefa, follows the family tradition of pursuing football passionately.
Paopao’s Athletic Journey Guided By Father
Te-Hina Paopao’s journey has been marked by pre-dawn dedication, a commitment ingrained in her daily routine since kindergarten.
She woke up as early as 4 and 5 a.m. and watched her brother Israel strive in his football pursuits.
However, in middle school, Te-Hina fully embraced the discipline, transitioning her focus to the exciting world of basketball.
Her early encounters with basketball unfolded around the age of 6 or 7.
During her brother’s football practices, Te-Hina, under the watchful guidance of their father, honed her skills by shooting hoops.
This early exposure laid the groundwork for a passion that propelled her toward greatness.
Recognizing Te-Hina’s potential at the tender age of 8, her father, Paul, emphasized the necessity of sacrifices to maximize her talent.
Undeterred, Te-Hina, even in her youth, displayed a remarkable absence of fear.
Paul Paopao remarked,
“There was no fear. She actually embraced it. That was learned through her brothers.”
Te-Hina’s unyielding determination became a defining characteristic, and she navigated challenges with unwavering resolve.
