The 2025 WNBA season is already heating up, and one name that’s got everyone talking is rookie guard Te-Hina Paopao of the Atlanta Dream. On May 7, the team dropped a set of media day photos — and fans are loving it. Paopao, the No. 18 pick in this year’s draft, totally owned the shoot. She showed off not just her style, but also the fun, high-energy vibe that’s quickly making her a fan favorite.
A Magical Media Day for Te-Hina Paopao
Paopao’s media day photos are seriously eye-catching. In one shot, she’s mid-jump, kicking one leg up and tossing a basketball like it’s second nature — her energy just jumps off the screen.
She’s rocking the Atlanta Dream’s new jersey, too, which looks awesome on her. It’s a sharp mix of gray with blue and pink accents. The Cash App logo stands out front and center — pretty cool, considering that the partnership was announced the same day.
📸 Day ft. @tehinapaopaoo #DoItForTheDream pic.twitter.com/mzQez82hzr
— Atlanta Dream (@AtlantaDream) May 7, 2025
In another snap, Paopao confidently poses with a Wilson basketball, pointing at the camera. Her curly hair and tattoos add flair against the white backdrop. Drafted 18th overall in 2025 from South Carolina, she led the division with a 46.8% 3-point shooting rate.
Fans Are Obsessed
Fans couldn’t help but notice the whimsical, almost storybook quality of Paopao’s presence in these photos. Her radiant smile and animated poses sparked comparisons to a Disney heroine — hence the “Disney coded” label trending on X.
One excited fan wrote, “You got a prize Atlanta. Her name is Pao Pao,” praising the Dream for landing such a gem. They clearly believe Paopao’s vibrant energy and sharpshooting skills will make her a cornerstone for the team.
MORE: Who Is Deja Kelly?
Another supporter chimed in with a playful comparison: “I was like why is Yara Shahidi playing for the Dream lol.” They couldn’t help but notice Paopao’s poised demeanor and charm, mirroring the actress’s star power.
And one fan gushed, “Like Moana is that you ???!” drawing a whimsical connection to Disney’s Moana, the Polynesian protagonist from the massive films. They were captivated by Paopao’s spirited pose and look, adding fuel to the “Disney coded” buzz.
Paopao’s media day debut with the Dream has lit up the WNBA fandom, blending on-court promise with off-court magic. As she begins her rookie season, fans are already rooting for this vibrant star to shine. Paopao’s proving she’s not just a player to watch — she’s a personality to love.