Early Life and Basketball Journey
In a significant development for women’s college basketball, identical twins Mia and Mya Pauldo, elite prospects from Paterson, New Jersey, have committed to the University of Tennessee’s Lady Volunteers. This decision comes after they declined offers from several prominent programs, including Ole Miss and professional opportunities like the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream.
Mia and Mya’s basketball journey began in their hometown of Paterson, where they were immersed in the sport from a young age. Their father, a former college player at Shaw University and a coach to professionals like J.R. Smith and Kyle Anderson, played a pivotal role in their development. The twins started playing basketball at six and quickly showcased their talent, leading them to Morris Catholic High School in Denville, New Jersey.
At Morris Catholic, the Pauldo twins led the Crusaders to an impressive 101-6 record, including a 52-game winning streak against New Jersey teams. Mia, known for her playmaking and defensive prowess, surpassed the 2,000-point mark in her junior year, while Mya contributed significantly as a combo guard with a strong mid-range game and leadership qualities.
Recruitment and Commitment to Tennessee
The twins’ exceptional performance attracted attention from top programs nationwide. Despite offers from schools like Rutgers, Baylor, Mississippi State, Ohio State, Miami, and Oklahoma, they chose Tennessee, citing the program’s storied history and the coaching staff’s vision. Assistant coach Gabe Lazo and head coach Kim Caldwell played instrumental roles in their recruitment, emphasizing a fast-paced, aggressive style of play that aligns with the twins’ strengths.
Their commitment is part of Tennessee’s highest-ranked recruiting class since 2017, which includes other top prospects like Deniya Prawl, Jaida Civil, and Lauren Hurst. This class is poised to restore the Lady Vols’ prominence in women’s college basketball.
NIL Deals and Brand Building
Beyond the court, Mia and Mya have been trailblazers in the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) space. In 2022, they became the youngest basketball players to sign an NIL deal with Puma, followed by a partnership with Gatorade in 2024. These deals reflect their marketability and commitment to building their brand, “TwinBackCourt,” which boasts a significant social media following.
The twins also star in their own reality series, “No Limits with Mia & Mya Pauldo,” produced by Overtime, showcasing their lives as student-athletes and their impact on and off the court.
Impact on Tennessee and Women’s Basketball
The addition of Mia and Mya Pauldo is expected to have a transformative effect on the Lady Vols program. Their dynamic play, leadership, and experience are anticipated to elevate the team’s performance and attract further top-tier talent. Moreover, their presence underscores Tennessee’s commitment to excellence and innovation in women’s basketball.
Their journey also serves as an inspiration to young athletes, particularly in urban communities, demonstrating that dedication, family support, and strategic choices can lead to success both on and off the court.
Looking Ahead
As Mia and Mya prepare to join the Lady Vols for the 2025-26 season, expectations are high. Their unique bond as twins, combined with their individual talents, positions them to make an immediate impact. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as they embark on this new chapter, aiming to lead Tennessee back to national prominence and inspire the next generation of women’s basketball players.
