Twin Sisters Mia and Mya Pauldo: A Journey of Choice, Commitment, and Basketball Excellence at Ohio University

Basketball runs deep in the veins of Mia and Mya Pauldo. Born and raised in a basketball-crazed family in Dayton, Ohio, the twin sisters not only share a bond of siblinghood but also an unyielding love for the game. Their journey, however, is more than just one of athleticism; it’s a story of personal growth, shared dreams, and a defining decision that would shape their future both on and off the court.

In the fall of 2025, Mia and Mya Pauldo made the bold decision to attend Ohio University, choosing the Bobcats over prestigious offers from some of the biggest names in college basketball, including Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas. Their decision raised eyebrows across the country. Both players were highly sought after, with a plethora of colleges eager to secure their talents. But for Mia and Mya, it wasn’t about the notoriety or the size of the program. It was about finding the place where they could grow as both players and people, a place where their connection as sisters could remain central to their journey.

This story begins long before the national recruitment letters started arriving. It starts with a pair of girls who learned the basics of basketball from their father, a former player who turned into a coach after his career on the court. The Pauldo sisters developed an affinity for basketball when they could barely walk, and by the time they were in middle school, they were already dominating the local courts. Their competitive spirit, work ethic, and basketball IQ were unmatched in their community, setting the stage for the rise of two future collegiate stars.

Early Life: Shaping the Future of Two Athletes

Mia and Mya’s bond began long before they started playing organized basketball. As twins, they grew up in an environment where they supported each other through every phase of life—academically, socially, and, of course, athletically. They didn’t just share a birthday; they shared the same dreams, the same struggles, and the same love for basketball.

Both sisters played multiple sports growing up, but basketball was always their first love. Their father, Marcus Pauldo, recognized their natural ability and pushed them to be their best. With his guidance, they developed skills that set them apart from their peers. Mia and Mya weren’t just athletes—they were students of the game, always analyzing plays, working on their shooting techniques, and studying the strategies of the top players in the world.

By the time high school arrived, Mia and Mya were already making waves on the court. They were unstoppable as a duo, each complementing the other’s strengths. Mia was known for her speed and agility, a guard with a lethal three-point shot and the ability to break down defenses. Mya, on the other hand, was a force in the paint, dominating both ends of the court with her rebounding, shot-blocking, and post moves. Together, they formed an unbreakable unit that often left opposing teams in the dust.

As high school seniors, the twin sisters were ranked among the top recruits in the nation. Their stats were jaw-dropping, and their performances at tournaments and showcases caught the attention of college scouts from across the country. Schools from all major conferences—SEC, Big 12, ACC, and Pac-12—fought for a chance to sign the Pauldo twins. But the sisters knew that this wasn’t just about basketball. It was about finding the right place, the right fit, where they could continue to grow, both as athletes and individuals.

The Recruiting Process: A Choice Beyond Basketball

The recruiting process can often be overwhelming for high school athletes, particularly those who are at the top of their class. Mia and Mya were no exception. As offers from the top programs poured in, they had to sit down with their family, coaches, and each other to make one of the most important decisions of their lives.

While the big names of Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas were alluring, Mia and Mya never lost sight of what they wanted out of their college experience. They were not just looking for a prestigious program where they could shine individually—they were searching for a place where they could grow together, play as a team, and create a lasting impact.

This led them to Ohio University.

Ohio may not have the same historical prestige as some of the other schools that offered them scholarships, but for the Pauldo twins, it was about more than just basketball. They were drawn to the family-like atmosphere at Ohio, a place where they felt that they could contribute to something bigger than themselves. The Bobcats had a passionate coaching staff, a commitment to player development, and an environment that emphasized both academics and athletics in a balanced way.

“I think we realized that we didn’t want to just be a part of a big program where we were expected to follow a script,” Mia explained. “We wanted to be part of a community where we could make a real difference, where we could help build something together.”

For Mya, it was the idea of being a leader and helping shape the team’s future that sealed the deal. “I love the idea of being part of something where we can leave our mark,” she said. “It’s not just about the wins and losses. It’s about building a legacy, both for us and for the future players who come through Ohio.”

Why Ohio: The Perfect Fit

What made Ohio University stand out to the Pauldo sisters wasn’t just the basketball program—it was the culture. The coaching staff at Ohio emphasized family and teamwork above all else. For Mia and Mya, this resonated deeply. They had always played together as a duo, and the idea of continuing that bond in college was something they cherished. Moreover, the opportunity to have a fresh start in a program with the potential to rise was both exciting and motivating.

Ohio’s head coach, Bob Healy, was instrumental in their decision. He took the time to build a relationship with Mia and Mya, understanding their goals and motivations beyond the court. He wasn’t just looking for two players to add to his roster; he wanted individuals who would invest in the team’s long-term success.

“There was something about the way Coach Healy talked about his vision for the program that resonated with us,” Mya said. “He didn’t just talk about basketball. He talked about growth, about becoming better athletes, but also better people. That’s what we were looking for.”

Coach Healy’s philosophy was centered on building players who could excel both on and off the court. It was clear that Ohio had the resources to nurture the sisters’ basketball careers, but more importantly, it had the values that matched their own.

Building a Legacy: The Twin Impact

Arriving at Ohio, Mia and Mya quickly made their mark. They became instant contributors to the team, demonstrating not only their individual talent but also their ability to elevate the play of those around them. Their connection on the court was undeniable. Whether it was an assist from Mia to Mya or a perfectly timed screen to free up a teammate, the Pauldo twins had a chemistry that set them apart from other players.

But beyond their on-court contributions, the Pauldos also became leaders within the program. They weren’t content with simply being stars—they wanted to help lead the Bobcats to new heights. Their work ethic, attitude, and commitment to the team quickly made them fan favorites and leaders in the locker room.

Mia and Mya’s first season at Ohio was marked by a series of milestones. They led the team to a conference championship, earned All-Conference honors, and became known for their ability to step up in clutch moments. But even as their individual accolades mounted, they remained focused on the bigger picture.

Their success wasn’t just a result of their talent—it was a reflection of their teamwork, their unwavering support for one another, and their shared vision for the program.

Beyond Basketball: The Pauldo Sisters’ Impact

While basketball was the catalyst for their decision to attend Ohio, Mia and Mya soon realized that the impact they could make at the university went far beyond the court. Both sisters were deeply committed to academics, with a desire to pursue careers in sports management and coaching after their playing days were over. They used their platform as student-athletes to promote education, leadership, and community involvement, speaking at local schools and encouraging younger athletes to follow in their footsteps.

“We know that basketball won’t last forever, but the lessons we learn and the people we meet along the way will,” Mya said. “That’s what’s really important to us.”

Their leadership, both on and off the court, quickly earned them the respect of their teammates and the broader university community. The Pauldo sisters were more than just basketball players—they were role models, mentors, and ambassadors for the Ohio University brand.

As their careers progressed, they helped guide the Bobcats to unprecedented levels of success. Their combined efforts lifted the program into national prominence, making Ohio a destination for future recruits. And through it all, the twin sisters remained grounded, always staying true to the values that guided them from the very beginning: family, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

The decision of Mia and Mya Pauldo to choose Ohio University over basketball powerhouses like Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas was more than just a story about two talented players picking a school. It was a testament to their character, their shared bond as sisters, and their belief that the right fit was about more than just basketball success—it was about finding a place where they could grow, contribute, and leave a lasting legacy.

As the years passed, Mia and Mya’s impact on Ohio University was undeniable. Their hard work, determination, and commitment to one another and their team became the cornerstone of the Bobcats’ basketball program. Their journey was one of choice, commitment, and excellence—a journey that would be remembered for generations to come.