HI-PAL Winter Basketball Classic Results

Kalakaua, winners of the HI-PAL Winter Basketball Classic Tournament’s girls 8-and-under division. HI-PAL photo.

A total of 36 teams participated in the 35th Annual Hawaii Police Activities League’s Winter Basketball Classic Tournament, which was held Dec. 26-29 at multiple Big Island gymnasiums, including Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium, Edith Kanaka’ole Indoor Tennis Stadium, Andrews Gym, and Hilo Armory.

Team Alakai won the 8-and-under division with a narrow 20-19 win on the final day of the tournament over NSP. Kingston Lee scored 12 points. Other members of the division-winning team were Kahiau Alcoran, Kolt Baptista, AJ Blanco, Kekane Manuia, Malachi McCloud, and Kanoa Pabre.

Another close contest was held in the girls 10-and-under division as Kalakaua defeated Fly Girls 21-18. Keilani Stewart and Summer Wong each led Kalakaua with six points. Joining Stewart and Wong on the winning team were Ava Ahokoui, Maile Bellevou, Davina Li, Rebekah Lum Kee, Ashley Tom, and Renee Yadao.

Team members from Alakai pose for a team photo after winning the HI-PAL Winter Basketball Classic boys 8-and-under division. HI-PAL photo.

The most exciting finish came in the boys 12-and-under championship. Kasen Mehau’s buzzer-beating three-pointer gave Man Up a 48-45 win over Shut D. Mehau scored 16 points in the win. Winning teammates included RJ Solmerin, Jazelle Dorser, Justin Dorser, Dylan Honda, Brock Malani, Carson Kawaguchi, Dorian Kuamoo, and Spencer Yoshizumi.

In other championship contests, Stray-Kats knocked off the Stingrays 38-33 in the girls 14-and-under title game, led by Kelsie Imai’s 14 points. Hoop Dreams won the boys 14-and-under championship with a 57-24 win over the Wailuku Wolfpack, and Man Up defeated NSP 30-12 in the boys 10-and-under championship contest.