Te-Hina Paopao had a textbook “welcome to the WNBA” moment in the Atlanta Dream’s 81-76 loss to the Indiana Fever on May 22.

The crowd inside the sold-out State Farm Arena caught it. It was the type of moment that has defined the early careers of this year’s rookie class.

Indiana Fever Natasha Howard Gives Te-Hina Paopao “Welcome to the WNBA” Moments

In the opening half, Indiana forward Natasha Howard set a screen that sent the rookie guard stumbling. The foul was called a moving screen, but Paopao’s reaction stood out. She got up smiling, a reaction rare from rookies who usually need a minute to collect themselves.

Caitlin Clark collided with Breanna Stewart in her rookie season on a similar play, although Stewart’s wasn’t called for a violation, and she would score the bucket on that possession. That clip went viral, and so did this one.

Te-Hina Paopao has been one of the Dream’s early bright spots. With Jordin Canada being sidelined, the rookie, who earned a spot in the backcourt, added 11 points in the loss, matching Allisha Gray for third-most on the team behind Rhyne Howard and Brionna Jones.

Howard led the Dream with 24 points. Jones added 15 points and 11 rebounds.

Te-Hina Paopao’s WNBA Debut Highlighted by Resilience and Skill

The Dream now heavily relies on Paopao, thanks to her being taken 18th in the WNBA Draft in 2024. Paopao has stepped up with confidence and composure, with Canada sidelined by a knee injury. Her preseason performance impressed the Dream coaching staff enough to secure her spot over third-year guard Haley Jones, demonstrating the organization’s trust in her abilities.

During Atlanta’s season opener against the Washington Mystics, Paopao notched her first WNBA points on a slick euro-step layup that energized fans and showed off her talent. Although overshadowed by draft classmates Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron, Paopao has steadily proven herself. She has established she is a capable starter in Karl Smesko’s offensive scheme, shooting 50% from the field in her first two regular-season appearances.

With veterans like Howard, Gray, and Brittney Griner around her, Paopao has the structure and support needed to flourish. Whether or not her starting role continues once Canada returns, she has already made a strong case to remain in Atlanta’s guard rotation.