In a commanding performance, the University of Hawaii men’s basketball team triumphed over Hawaii Hilo with a decisive 98-46 victory at the Bankoh Arena located in the Stan Sheriff Center. This win brings the Rainbow Warriors’ season record to 9-2, establishing a strong start against a favorable schedule, while the Vulcans remain winless, suffering their seventh consecutive loss.
Harry Rouhliadeff led the charge for the ‘Bows, scoring 16 points and contributing significantly with nine rebounds and five assists. The team’s offensive prowess was evident, with six players reaching double figures. Hawaii dominated both inside and outside the paint, achieving a remarkable 40 points from within, including a stellar 14-for-18 on layups, and hitting a season-high 13 three-pointers.
The team’s impressive ball movement was highlighted by 25 assists on 35 baskets, and they maintained discipline with only six turnovers. The performance marked the lowest scoring game for a UH opponent this season, showcasing the defensive strength of the Rainbow Warriors.
The ‘Bows surged ahead early, establishing a commanding 48-24 lead by halftime. Bench players made key contributions, with Isaac Finlinson scoring 11 points and Gytis Nemeiksa adding seven, as Hawaii’s reserves outscored their counterparts 18-8.
Hunter Erickson was particularly effective, hitting three of the team’s nine three-point shots in the first half. The ‘Bows concluded the first 20 minutes with a solid shooting performance from beyond the arc, converting on 9 of 22 attempts, while the Vulcans struggled to find the net, missing all five of their three-point attempts.
Looking ahead, Hawaii will host UTEP in their final game of the calendar year on Saturday. After an 18-day break, the ‘Bows are set to return to action against Riverside on January 1.
