This story seems in SLAM 252. Get your copy now.
Twin, the place have you ever been? The Pauldo twins are breaking new floor as they turn out to be everybody’s favourite duo on and off the courtroom. New Jersey’s very personal Mia and Mya Pauldo have made a reputation for themselves nationwide, holding two spots within the top-50 rankings for the Class of 2025 and each committing to hold on the Woman Vols’ legacy beginning subsequent yr.
As one of many hardest backcourts within the nation, Mia’s playmaking expertise and Mya’s command of the ground showcase their grit and willpower. Collectively, they’ve etched their names in New Jersey hoop historical past.
Enjoying collectively is like “having two killers with you, as a result of we’re each powerful,” Mia says.
“She’s my finest pal,” says Mya. “We do every little thing collectively, inform one another every little thing. Our bond is so shut, and that interprets to the courtroom.”
Profitable has at all times been a high precedence for the twins, whether or not it’s state championships, Participant of the Yr awards or any sport they compete in. Whereas All-Star Video games may break up them up, their focus stays clear: to play arduous for the identify on the again of their jerseys.
“We wish to see one another shine,” Mia says. “That’s my mindset. I’m cheering for her even when she’s on the opposite staff.”
Minutes earlier than the SLAM Summer time Traditional Vol. 6, the twins had been requested to ship messages to one another. Virtually in unison, they inspired one another to “deal with enterprise and get the dub.”
The SLAM Summer time Traditional was a key aim for his or her senior yr, with the hopes of additionally being invited to the McDonald’s All-American Sport and Jordan Model Traditional subsequent spring.
Their sisterhood will lengthen to Tennessee subsequent season, and hopefully the WNBA past that. What really stood out throughout our time with the twins was their composure and affection for one another, but in addition their dedication to giving again to their household and group.
“We have now to maintain going,” Mya says. “Maintain hustling, as a result of we’re doing one thing proper. We have to proceed as a result of individuals are watching us and searching as much as us.”
“You at all times have to carry your self to a better normal and be respectful, figuring out everyone seems to be watching,” Mya provides.
With eyes on the sisters, how will they proceed to construct on their legacy? Younger Mia and Mya initially set their sights on enjoying abroad, however now, with the WNBA nearer than ever, their aim has advanced to make historical past as the primary twins to play within the League concurrently.
“We wish to develop the sport on this nation,” Mya says. “We wish extra groups, higher pay and extra eyes set on ladies’s basketball.”
Being the primary wouldn’t come as a shock. “That’s our life; we’re trendsetters,” Mia says. “We wish to be the primary to do it in our period.”
When requested what message they’d give their future selves as they appear again on SLAM 252, Mia replies, “At all times be impressed by one thing.” Mya provides, “Take a second to be taught one thing new every single day.”
What extra might one ask for than having your twin by your aspect to encourage and be taught from every single day?
Portraits by Marcus Stevens.
