By R.L. Bynum
Taissa Queiroz: From Brazil to Chapel Hill
As Taissa Queiroz prepares to hit the court this fall in Chapel Hill, she brings with her exceptional size, strength, and skill, enhanced by invaluable life experiences.
A Unique Journey Begins
The 6–1 wing, who has earned a four-star rating, began her journey in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, a vibrant city teeming with over two million inhabitants. Though sports were always a part of her life, basketball wasn’t her initial passion.
The Spark of Basketball
Growing up in a culture that idolizes soccer and its one-name stars, Queiroz first played soccer before transitioning to basketball at her mother’s suggestion. Her presence was noted in Northern California when she joined Cardinal Newman High School, where she became known as “Tissa,” a nickname that captured media attention.
Formative Experiences
Starting basketball at age eight, Queiroz was the sole girl on her team, playing with boys for five years. These experiences shaped her resilience, and by her early teens, she was competing against significantly older women, which honed her skills and instincts for higher competitive levels.
International Success
Her dedication to the sport was evident as she helped Brazil’s U17 team win the South American Championship and recently earned a bronze medal at the U23 GlobJam in Canada. Her creativity as a scorer and ability to make shots from beyond the arc have made her a standout player, ranked No. 77 in ESPN’s Class of 2025.
Facing New Challenges
In May, Queiroz had the unique experience of competing against WNBA teams. This exposure was eye-opening, especially when tasked with guarding elite players like Caitlin Clark, further fueling her ambition for growth and improvement.
Adjusting to Life in the U.S.
Having previously lived away from her family in Brazil, Queiroz took a bold step by moving to California to pursue her basketball dreams. While adjusting to a new language and culture was challenging, she has embraced her new environment, viewing her teammates as a second family and focusing on her goals in academics and athletics. Her remarkable journey has only just begun.
