Alumna Te-Hina Paopao Drafted by Atlanta Dream in 2025 WNBA Draft
Paopao joins an elite group of Torreys at the professional level.
La Jolla Country Day School proudly celebrates alumna Te-Hina Paopao ’20, who was selected 18th overall by the Atlanta Dream in the 2025 WNBA Draft, becoming the school’s third alumna to reach the WNBA. She joins fellow Torreys Candice Wiggins ’04 and Kelsey Plum ’13 in this elite group.
Paopao, a standout guard from Oceanside, California, had a remarkable collegiate career at both Oregon and South Carolina. At South Carolina, she played a pivotal role in the Gamecocks’ 2024 national championship run, leading the nation in three-point shooting at 46.8% and earning All-America and All-SEC honors. She set a program record for games started and made 87 three-pointers in a single season, the third-most in school history.
During the draft, Paopao chose to celebrate from her hometown, surrounded by approximately 300 family members and friends, including LJCDS Head Basketball Coach Terri Bamford. Bamford was the first to wrap Te-Hina in a congratulatory hug—a powerful moment that spoke to the strength of their bond and the legacy of support that defines the Torrey community.
At La Jolla Country Day, Paopao was a McDonald’s All-American and the Gatorade California Player of the Year, showcasing her talent early on. Her selection in the WNBA Draft continues the school’s track-record of producing top-tier student-athletes.
The LJCDS community is immensely proud of Te-Hina’s achievements and looks forward to watching her professional career flourish with the Atlanta Dream.
Congratulations, Te-Hina! Once a Torrey, always a Torrey.
