**BREAKING: Te-Hina Paopao Inks Blockbuster Contract Extension with South Carolina for 2025-26 Season — Fans Rejoice as Star Guard Commits to One More Year**
The South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program has secured a massive victory off the court, as star guard Te-Hina Paopao has agreed to a blockbuster contract extension that will keep her in Columbia for the 2025-26 season. The announcement sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, with fans and analysts alike celebrating the return of one of the most dynamic playmakers in the game. Paopao’s decision to forego the WNBA Draft for another year cements South Carolina’s status as a national championship contender and ensures that head coach Dawn Staley’s squad will remain a powerhouse in the SEC and beyond.
Paopao, who transferred to South Carolina from Oregon ahead of the 2023-24 season, quickly established herself as a cornerstone of the Gamecocks’ offense. Her elite shooting, court vision, and leadership were instrumental in the team’s deep postseason runs, and her return solidifies South Carolina’s backcourt as one of the most formidable in the nation. Known for her clutch performances and ability to take over games in critical moments, Paopao has become a fan favorite, and her loyalty to the program has only deepened the admiration from the Gamecock faithful.
The details of the contract extension have not been fully disclosed, but sources close to the program indicate that it includes significant NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities, reflecting Paopao’s marketability and impact both on and off the court. With endorsement deals already in place with major brands, Paopao’s decision to stay another year not only benefits her financially but also strengthens South Carolina’s ability to compete at the highest level. In the era of NIL and the transfer portal, retaining a player of Paopao’s caliber is a testament to the culture and resources within the Gamecocks’ program.
For South Carolina, Paopao’s return is a game-changer. The 2025-26 roster was already expected to be loaded with talent, but adding another year of Paopao’s experience and skill elevates the team’s ceiling even higher. Her ability to stretch defenses with her three-point shooting—she shot over 40% from beyond the arc last season—opens up driving lanes for her teammates and forces opponents to defend the entire floor. Additionally, her chemistry with fellow guards and the team’s incoming recruits will be crucial as the Gamecocks look to reclaim the national title.
Fans took to social media to express their excitement, with many calling this the biggest offseason win for South Carolina. “Te-Hina coming back is HUGE,” one fan tweeted. “We’re winning it all next year!” Another wrote, “Paopao could’ve gone pro, but she chose to run it back with her sisters. That’s loyalty.” The sentiment across the fanbase is unanimous: Paopao’s return is a dream scenario, and the anticipation for next season has already reached a fever pitch.
From a strategic standpoint, Paopao’s presence allows Coach Staley to maintain continuity in her system. With so many young players stepping into larger roles, having a veteran leader like Paopao to guide them is invaluable. Her basketball IQ and ability to make those around her better have been evident since her arrival, and her mentorship of younger guards will be critical in their development. Staley, known for her ability to maximize talent, now has the luxury of building her offense around a proven floor general who understands the nuances of the game at an elite level.
The ripple effects of this decision extend beyond just South Carolina. Opposing teams in the SEC and across the country now have to recalibrate their expectations for next season. Paopao’s return, combined with the Gamecocks’ already stacked roster, makes them the early favorites to cut down the nets in 2026. Rival coaches will have to game-plan specifically for her skill set, and her ability to perform under pressure makes her one of the most dangerous players in college basketball.
For Paopao personally, this extra year allows her to further refine her game before making the jump to the WNBA. While she is already considered a pro-ready talent, another season under Staley’s tutelage could enhance her draft stock even more. Scouts have praised her shooting, playmaking, and competitive fire, but with another year to work on her defensive consistency and leadership, she could position herself as a top-five pick in the 2026 draft.
The timing of this announcement also sends a strong message to recruits. South Carolina’s ability to retain a star like Paopao demonstrates the program’s stability and commitment to winning. High school prospects looking for a program that develops players for the next level while competing for championships will see this as further proof that Columbia is the place to be. Staley’s track record of sending players to the WNBA, combined with the team’s winning culture, makes South Carolina an attractive destination for the nation’s top talent.
As the celebrations continue among fans, the focus now shifts to what this team can achieve next season. With Paopao leading the charge, the Gamecocks have all the pieces in place for another historic run. The chemistry, talent, and coaching are there—now it’s about putting it all together when it matters most.
In an era where player movement is more frequent than ever, Te-Hina Paopao’s decision to stay is a refreshing reminder of the power of loyalty and unfinished business. For South Carolina, the future has never looked brighter. The 2025-26 season can’t come soon enough.
**#Gamecocks #PaopaoStays #OneMoreYear**
