KNOXVILLE SHOCKER: Elite Twin Prospects Mia & Mya Pauldo Reject Ole Miss and Atlanta Dream Opportunities to Commit to Tennessee Lady Vols
In a stunning recruiting twist that has fans and analysts buzzing coast to coast, identical twins Mia and Mya Pauldo — elite basketball prospects out of Morris Catholic High School in Denville, New Jersey — have made a bold and history-making decision: they’re committing to the Tennessee Lady Vols, turning down offers from Ole Miss Women’s Basketball and even a pro pathway with the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream.
This unprecedented move sends a clear message: Lady Vols basketball is back in the spotlight, and the Pauldo twins are betting their future on the rich legacy built in Knoxville.
> “We didn’t choose Tennessee just for basketball,” Mia said during the announcement. “We chose it because it feels like a second home — like family.”
> “We want to build something special, and no place has that tradition like the Lady Vols,” Mya added.
🔥 A Power Duo With Superstar Potential
Standing at 5’11”, both Mia and Mya are combo guards known for their elite court vision, clutch shooting, and tenacious perimeter defense. Recruiting analysts have referred to them as a “once-in-a-decade package deal” — with chemistry that’s nearly impossible to replicate and leadership skills far beyond their years.
Tennessee head coach Kim Caldwell (or the current Lady Vols coach at the time of reading) called the commitment “a monumental day” for the program.
🏀 Turning Down the Dream — Literally
The twins reportedly had NIL interest from the Atlanta Dream via their development pipeline and were also on the verge of final visits with Ole Miss, making their commitment to Tennessee even more dramatic.
Now, with the Pauldo twins locked in, the Lady Vols not only win a recruiting battle — they’ve just reloaded with two future superstars who are ready to carry the torch.
The Pauldo Era in Knoxville has begun. And it’s going to be unforgettable.