U.S. Representative Aumua Amata (R-American Samoa) acknowledged the South Carolina Gamecocks’ women’s basketball team for winning a National Championship, and recognized standout player Tehina Paopao who has Samoan and Tokelauan heritage.

“I rise in recognition of the University of South Carolina women’s basketball team; these amazing athletes from my good friend Joe Wilson’s district, completed a perfect season culminating in a National Championship,” Amata said during remarks on the House floor. 

“A special congratulations (Malo le ta’alo fa’atamali’i!) to senior guard Tehina Paopao and her contributions to the team,” Amata said. “Tehina Paopao is of Samoan and Tokelauan heritage, and I know our islands always love to see our Pacific athletes excelling on the national stage. She will have lifelong memories of scoring 14 points in the national championship!” 

The South Carolina women’s basketball team defeated Iowa 87-75 to win their third National Championship. 

Paopao, a senior who plays guard position, earned 2nd Team All American honors and 2nd Team All-SEC this year. She is a two-time All-PAC-12 Team honoree and scored 407 points in her senior season.