The University of Hawai’i men’s basketball team put on an impressive performance, dominating Hawaii Hilo with a resounding 98-46 victory at the Bankoh Arena on Wednesday. This triumph marked the Rainbow Warriors’ fifth consecutive win and pushed their overall record to 9-2, their best start to a season since the 2015-16 campaign.
From the outset, the ‘Bows established control of the game, quickly building a double-digit lead, which they extended to 24 points by halftime, leading 48-24. Their commanding 52-point margin of victory was not only the largest in recent memory but also the third-largest in the program’s history; the last time the team enjoyed such a significant win was in 1972 when they defeated Redlands by 57 points.
The efficiency of UH’s offense was on full display as they cleverly dismantled the Vulcans’ zone defense, achieving a shooting percentage of 51%. They also showcased their sharpshooting skills by draining a season-high 13 three-pointers and recording an impressive 25 assists on 35 field goals. Defensively, the Rainbow Warriors were equally aggressive, limiting Hawaii Hilo to a mere 33% shooting rate, including a dismal 2-of-15 from beyond the arc.
Leading the charge for UH was Harry Rouhliadeff, who not only contributed 16 points but also grabbed nine rebounds and dished out a career-high five assists. Dre Bullock followed with 12 points, while Aaron Hunkin-Claytor made a significant impact as well, scoring 11 points with five assists and no turnovers. Other contributors included Hunter Erickson, Isaac Finlinson, and Gytis Nemeiksa, who each added 11 points to the scoreline.
The momentum built early as the ‘Bows scored the initial six points of the game and continued to shoot effectively, hitting five of their first seven attempts from three-point range. By the time the game entered its final quarter, UH maintained its lead, helped by Bullock’s nine points in a pivotal 11-2 run that expanded their lead to 39 points. The bench players were given ample playing time, with AJ Economou even recording his first two career three-pointers.
The Rainbow Warriors’ defense proved stifling as well; they forced Hawaii Hilo into 19 turnovers while committing only six themselves, allowing UH to outscore the Vulcans 24-7 on points off turnovers and 26-5 on second-chance opportunities.
The victory against Hawaii Hilo wraps up an impressive stretch for the Rainbow Warriors as they prepare to face UTEP on Saturday, December 13, at 7:00 p.m. The matchup will mark the end of their 11-game homestand, and fans can look forward to various promotions, including an autograph session with the Rainbow Warrior football team.
