Knoxville: Mia and Mya Pauldo, Identical Twins and Elite Basketball Prospects from Morris Catholic High School in Denville, New Jersey, Reject Ole Miss Women’s Basketball and Atlanta Dream for Tennessee Lady Vols.
*Knoxville, TN* — In a groundbreaking decision that has taken the college basketball world by storm, Mia and Mya Pauldo, the identical twin basketball prodigies from Morris Catholic High School in Denville, New Jersey, have committed to the Tennessee Lady Vols, turning down offers from the Ole Miss Women’s Basketball program and even a potential future with the Atlanta Dream of the WNBA.
The Pauldo twins, widely regarded as one of the top basketball duos in the country, made their commitment official on social media late Friday night, sharing their decision to bring their talents to the University of Tennessee, home to one of the most prestigious women’s basketball programs in NCAA history.
A Dual Commitment That Shakes Up Recruiting
The announcement from Mia and Mya was met with waves of excitement not only from Tennessee fans but also from basketball enthusiasts across the country. The decision was a culmination of months of speculation, recruitment battles, and high-level competition between some of the nation’s most elite programs.
The twins, who have been inseparable on and off the court throughout their careers, were highly sought after by schools across the nation. Their basketball IQ, athleticism, and ability to dominate on both ends of the floor have made them a fearsome duo. Mia and Mya are known for their scoring ability, versatility, and defensive prowess, which has made them stand out in a crowded field of elite recruits.
Mya Pauldo, a 6-foot guard, is lauded for her playmaking and leadership skills, while Mia, also standing at 6 feet, has become a force in the post and on the wing. Together, they’ve been unstoppable, guiding Morris Catholic to multiple state championships and earning accolades that place them among the top high school prospects in the country.
However, despite receiving interest from a host of powerhouses, including Ole Miss and the Atlanta Dream, it was Tennessee that ultimately won their hearts. The decision to join the Lady Vols over other programs, including their initial interest in Ole Miss and a possible career in the WNBA with the Atlanta Dream, signals the importance of the program’s legacy, culture, and competitive environment for these highly coveted recruits.
Why Tennessee?
Tennessee’s appeal is undeniable. The Lady Vols’ rich history, including eight NCAA championships and a long list of legendary players such as Chamique Holdsclaw, Tamika Catchings, and Diana Taurasi, made them a top choice for the twins. Head coach **Kellie Harper**, who has transformed the Lady Vols program since taking the helm, played a crucial role in making Tennessee their final choice.
“We wanted a place where we could grow both as athletes and as individuals,” said Mia Pauldo during the twins’ announcement. “Tennessee feels like home. Coach Harper’s vision for us and her approach to developing players really spoke to us. We want to be part of something bigger than ourselves and leave a legacy here.”
Mya echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of playing in a program that not only values player development but also upholds a commitment to excellence. “The environment at Tennessee is one of family and hard work,” she said. “We love the competitive atmosphere, the history of the program, and the level of support we’ll receive as athletes. It’s a place where we can challenge ourselves every day, and that’s what we’re looking for.”
Tennessee’s long-standing success in women’s college basketball, along with the chance to play in front of the passionate fanbase in Thompson–Boling Arena, was another significant factor. The Lady Vols have consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation, and the opportunity to add two elite players like the Pauldo twins to their roster only adds to the excitement surrounding the program’s future.
The Ole Miss and Atlanta Dream Offers
While the Pauldo twins had expressed serious interest in several programs, Ole Miss was initially seen as a top contender for their commitment. The Rebels, under head coach **Yolett McPhee-McCuin**, had made an impressive run in recent seasons and had cultivated a strong recruiting class. Ole Miss’ pitch to the twins focused on the opportunity to play in a fast-paced offense that would allow them to thrive and showcase their skills.
But in the end, the lure of Tennessee’s legacy proved too strong. The Lady Vols’ combination of tradition, success, and culture of developing talent won out, even though Ole Miss had positioned itself as a top contender.
Moreover, the Atlanta Dream of the WNBA had reportedly offered the twins a potential opportunity to play professionally even before they entered college. This rare offer to bypass college basketball and go straight to the pros is not typically extended to high school players, but the Dream recognized the immense potential of the Pauldo twins. Despite the allure of playing professionally, Mia and Mya ultimately decided that their college experience would serve as a critical foundation for their future careers. Playing under the spotlight at a prestigious program like Tennessee allows them to refine their skills and prepare for the WNBA down the road.
Looking Ahead to Their College Careers
With their commitment to the Tennessee Lady Vols, Mia and Mya are now poised to join a program on the rise with championship aspirations. They will join a team that already boasts a blend of talented upperclassmen and promising newcomers, including standout players like **Jordan Horston** and **Rae Burrell**. Together, the Pauldo twins are expected to make an immediate impact, both on the court and in the locker room, as Tennessee continues its quest for another NCAA title.
The twins have set high goals for their time at Tennessee. “We’re coming here to win,” said Mya. “We want to help Tennessee get back to the top of women’s college basketball and build a legacy that people will remember for years.”
Mia and Mya Pauldo’s decision to reject Ole Miss and the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream for Tennessee is a testament to the power of tradition, vision, and a program that knows how to develop players for the next level. As the twins head to Knoxville, Tennessee women’s basketball fans can look forward to witnessing the start of an exciting new chapter in the program’s storied history.
With the Pauldo twins on board, the Tennessee Lady Vols are poised for greatness, and it’s clear that their future in the sport of basketball is shining brighter than ever.
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