Te-Hina Paopao turned heads in the Atlanta Dream’s preseason clash with the Indiana Fever, showing poise, precision, and tremendous potential. From crucial 3-pointers to lockdown defense, the rookie guard made a bold statement in just 21 minutes on the court.
Te-Hina Paopao Dazzles With 14 Points Against Fever
Paopao scored a team-high 14 points on an ultra-efficient 5-of-6 shooting night in Atlanta’s 81–76 preseason loss to the Indiana Fever on Saturday, May 10. She knocked down three of her four attempts from beyond the arc, showcasing the deep range that made her a coveted second-round pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.
In just 21 minutes of action, Paopao proved she can carry a scoring load, matching the Fever’s Lexie Hull for game-high honors.
Paopao’s impact wasn’t limited to offense; she rattled the rim with a timely chase-down block on Hull in the first quarter. Her active hands also led to a steal and transition opportunity during the game, underscoring her two-way promise as a rookie guard.
Beyond the highlight plays, Paopao showed poise directing Atlanta’s perimeter-oriented attack, dishing two assists while maintaining aggressive spacing on the floor.
“I was kind of mad that she scored that three (3-pointer) on me,” Paopao said while speaking about an exchange between her and Caitlin Clark. “So you know I had to get that lick back and that’s what I did.”
The rookie’s confidence in trading deep balls with one of the league’s most hyped stars could be a sign of things to come.
Fan Buzz: Paopao’s Breakout Moment Ignites Social Media
Paopao’s impressive performance against the Fever had fans lighting up social media with praise and excitement. One fan even commented, saying, “Star in the making. She had a phenomenal game.”
Paopao’s smooth shooting and electric energy brought life to the preseason matchup and gave Dream fans a reason to cheer despite the loss.
Another X user had said, “PaoPao, making basketball so fun to watch!”
The guard’s dynamic style and fearless approach made viewers enjoy the game. The attitude she displayed on court also struck a chord with viewers.
“I love the confidence from the rook!!” one WNBA fan wrote.
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However, not all comments focused solely on Paopao. One fan couldn’t help but critique Clark’s performance. “I mean dammit Clark do something out there, just letting her embarrass you all game,” the fan said.
The Dream will officially kick off their 2025 WNBA schedule with a visit to Washington to take on the Mystics. Tip-off is set for Friday, May 16, at 7:30 p.m. ET.
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