Twin Backcourt Homecoming: Women's Basketball Signs Mia and Mya Pauldo
Apr 13 | Women's Basketball
PISCATAWAY, N.J. — The "Twin Backcourt" is officially coming home to New Jersey, as Rutgers women's basketball head coach Gary Redus II announced the signing of sophomore transfers Mia and Mya Pauldo. The duo spent last season at Tennessee, where they each appeared in 27 games and combined for 18 starts.
"It's special to have the chance for fans to see the Twin Backcourt together again, back in New Jersey," Redus added. "They bring a unique energy, charisma and magnetism that will be felt throughout our program and fan base. Mia is a dynamic point guard who was one of the best players in the SEC from the jump, and we're looking forward to what she'll bring to our team. Mya will have a great opportunity here to showcase her skill set and continue her development."
B1G Homecoming 🔥
— Rutgers Women's Basketball (@RutgersWBB) April 13, 2026
The @TwinBackCourt is officially back in the Garden State🔒
📰: https://t.co/jlBAAkggGq #GoRU | #RUWBB pic.twitter.com/HiqQjnEBlh
Mia Pauldo turned in a stellar freshman campaign with the Lady Vols, averaging 10.4 points and 2.5 rebounds per game, the highest scoring average by a UT freshman since 2017-18. She poured in a career-high 26 points against Mississippi State (Jan. 8) and reached double figures in 13 contests, including three 20-point performances. Mia Pauldo also led the team at the free throw line, shooting an impressive 85.5 percent (53-of-62), and ranked second on the squad with 67 assists. She dished out a career-best 10 helpers against Winthrop (Dec. 14).
Her standout play earned national recognition, including a spot on the All-SEC Freshmen team and the USBWA Tamika Catchings Award Preseason Watch List, along with multiple weekly honors throughout the season.
Mya Pauldo also made a strong impact during her freshman season on Rocky Top, averaging 1.8 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. She recorded a career-high 10 points at Middle Tennessee (Nov. 20), going a perfect 5-for-5 from the field. Mya Pauldo knocked down at least one three-pointer in seven games, highlighted by a flawless 3-for-3 performance from beyond the arc at Auburn (Jan. 4).
Defensively, Mya Pauldo proved to be a steady presence, posting a career-best five rebounds and three steals against Coppin State (Nov. 23).
Mia and Mya Pauldo were ranked No. 9 and No. 57, respectively, coming out of high school per ESPNW. The pair, originally from Paterson, New Jersey, starred at Morris Catholic, where they led the Crusaders to a remarkable 109-6 record, four State title game appearances, three consecutive State Championships from 2023 to 2025 and the 2025 MaxPreps National Championship. The duo amassed more than 3,700 career points during their time at Morris Catholic.
The pair earned New Jersey All-State, MCGBCA All-County, and All-Conference honors. Mia Pauldo also garnered 2025 McDonald's All-American recognition and was named the 2025 New Jersey Gatorade Player of the Year.
"From day one, we've emphasized keeping local talent home—and that also means bringing back elite players who may have started their careers elsewhere," Redus added. "We're proud to welcome two of the best players in New Jersey history back to where it all started."
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