More than talent drives Te-Hina Paopao’s rise from Oceanside to NCAA stardom. But while fans are familiar with her as South Carolina’s clutch-shooting guard, few know just how much her roots inform her game. From giving teammates old-fashioned Kukui Nut necklaces to finding solace in her football-blooded family, Paopao embodies her Polynesian heritage on the court in ways that go against conventional athlete profiles.

What does an islander’s warrior spirit yield when it collides with Dawn Staley’s championship program? The answer is in Paopao’s unmatched and more than a little Polynesian way of extending this attitude of focus into sheer laser-level calm and shooting an insane 46.8 percent from three.

What Is Te-Hina Paopao’s Ethnicity?

Paopao’s background showcases the rich cultures of the Pacific Islands. She is of both Samoa and Tokelau descent and of the broader Polynesian group known for its vibrant culture and sporting enthusiasm. It is this dual pedigree that helps account for both her athletic gifts and her solid family values.

Her lineage is steeped in sports. Her uncle, Joe Salave’a, had a long NFL career before becoming a college football coach. Her brothers played football too while the SC guard was enrolled in soccer, softball, volleyball, and basketball. Support was strong in the family. So much so that she admits she would have quit had it not been for them. It was in this competitive environment that Te-Hina developed her signature toughness. “Sports in Samoan culture is really popular with us. It really brings families together. I think that’s something that really inspired me—to be like my brothers and be even better,” Paopao noted.

The way she leads is shaped by her cultural roots too. Ahead of South Carolina’s championship run, she gifted her teammates Kukui Nut necklaces, a traditional sign of togetherness in her culture.

What Is Te-Hina Paopao’s Nationality? Where Was She Born?

Born on August 21, 2002, Te-Hina Paopao is an American national currently residing in Oceanside, California. There, she attended La Jolla Country Day School, where her basketball career began. Her ability soon proved undisputed. Averaging 22.7 points per game as a high school senior, she collected several accolades, including California Gatorade Player of the Year and McDonald’s All-American honors.

While closely identified with her heritage, she also has represented the United States abroad with distinction, winning gold last year with the U.S. U19 national team in 2021. Her family is still her bedrock — her brother Israel even relocated to South Carolina to help facilitate her college career, attending almost every game.

What Religion Does Te-Hina Paopao Follow?

Paopao hasn’t publicly elaborated on her personal beliefs, but her faith in God has been strong. “I know God has been there through every step of the way, through this journey that I’ve been journeying through since, you know, a young child,” she said during March Madness 2024. She’d double in January 2025 again, grateful for getting to play the sport she loves.

“All Glory 2 Jesus for the joy i play with. Do not be fooled the Joy of the Lord is our strength .” Nehemiah 8:10,” she penned on Instagram.

The story of Te-Hina Paopao goes beyond athletics. It is a story of cultural pride, familial ties, and faith. From training with WNBA stars as a preteen to hitting clutch shots for South Carolina, she takes her heritage with her every time she takes the floor.