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 into 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 Girl Vols’ legacy beginning subsequent 12 months.
As one of many hardest backcourts within the nation, Mia’s playmaking abilities 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 greatest good friend,” says Mya. “We do every part collectively, inform one another every part. Our bond is so shut, and that interprets to the courtroom.”
Profitable has all the time 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 group.”
Minutes earlier than the SLAM Summer season Basic Vol. 6, the twins have been requested to ship messages to one another. Nearly in unison, they inspired one another to “deal with enterprise and get the dub.”
The SLAM Summer season Basic was a key aim for his or her senior 12 months, with the hopes of additionally being invited to the McDonald’s All-American Sport and Jordan Model Basic subsequent spring.
Their sisterhood will prolong 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 additionally their dedication to giving again to their household and group.
“We’ve got to maintain going,” Mya says. “Hold hustling, as a result of we’re doing one thing proper. We have to proceed as a result of persons are watching us and looking out as much as us.”
“You all the time have to carry your self to a better commonplace 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 taking part in abroad, however now, with the WNBA nearer than ever, their aim has developed 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 would like 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 give the impression of being again on SLAM 252, Mia replies, “All the time be impressed by one thing.” Mya provides, “Take a second to be taught one thing new day-after-day.”
What extra might one ask for than having your twin by your facet to encourage and be taught from day-after-day?
Portraits by Marcus Stevens.