Twin sisters Mia and Mya Pauldo, known as the “TwinBackCourt,” are making headlines in the basketball world with their recent commitment to the University of Tennessee and their groundbreaking NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deal with Puma.
The Pauldo twins, who have been immersed in basketball from a young age, are now set to bring their talents to the storied Lady Vols program, aiming for national championships and continuing to build their brand.
A Basketball Family Legacy
Born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, basketball has been an integral part of Mia and Mya Pauldo’s lives.
Growing up in a basketball-centric family, with both parents having played the game and their father coaching professional players like J.R. Smith and Kyle Anderson, the twins were destined to excel on the court.
They began playing basketball at the age of six, guided by their father, who has also played a significant role as their coach and brand strategist. Their mother, meanwhile, has been the backbone of their support system, managing everything from their nutrition to their off-court activities.
The Pauldo sisters have always pushed each other to be the best, both on and off the court. Their deep connection and shared passion for the game have driven them to become formidable players, known for their high basketball IQ and ability to lead teams.
Committing to the University of Tennessee
The Pauldo twins’ recent commitment to the University of Tennessee marks a significant milestone in their basketball careers.
Drawn by the energy, style of play, and rich history of the Lady Vols program, Mia and Mya believe Tennessee is the perfect place for them to showcase their skills and leadership abilities.
“We felt like the coaching staff’s energy and style of play was exactly what we needed to be able to showcase our complete skillsets as leaders on and off the court,” Mya told Blavity in a recent interview. “The campus and the energy they brought during our visit made it an easy decision.”
Mia echoed these sentiments, adding:
“It just felt different walking through the halls and seeing all the legendary names. We know we can lead a team and program to a national championship, and there’s no better school to do that than the University of Tennessee and the Lady Vols.”
Making History with Puma NIL Deal
In addition to their commitment to Tennessee, the Pauldo sisters have made history by securing an NIL deal with Puma, becoming the youngest athletes—male or female—to do so.
This partnership is a testament to their influence in the sport and their ability to elevate the visibility and value of women’s basketball.
Mya spoke about the importance of NIL deals for young athletes, particularly in women’s sports:
“I feel it’s important because the girl’s game has never been valued like the boy’s game, and those times are changing. We know we played a role in that as the youngest ballers ever with a shoe deal, and a lot of the brand work we’ve done and continue to do.”
Mia added:
“We were the youngest, and now it’s almost commonplace for high school players to get a deal, especially girls. But we know there’s still more work to be done.”
Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations
As they prepare to join the Lady Vols, Mia and Mya have big dreams for their time at Tennessee.
They aim to lead the program back to national championships while continuing to build their TwinBackCourt brand and create generational wealth for their family. They also hope to inspire young athletes, particularly those from their hometown of Paterson, New Jersey.
“Paterson breeds great basketball,” said Mya. “We are living proof that anything is possible. We always wanted a sneaker deal and our own reality show, and we did that! Now we have to keep working because hard work can’t hide.”
Mia and Mya’s journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved with talent, determination, and a strong support system.
As they continue to break barriers and set new standards, the Pauldo twins are not just rising stars—they are trailblazers in the world of sports.
