UH-Hilo Women’s Basketball to Play Hawai`i in Exhibition Game

The University of Hawai`i announced Wednesday that they will host the University of Hawai`i at Hilo in an exhibition women’s basketball game on Wed., Oct. 30.

The two schools have played against each other in each of the last two seasons. Two years ago, the Rainbow Wahine edged UH-Hilo 60-51 in both schools’ regular season opener. In 2012, the Vulcans fell to Hawai`i 72-47 in an exhibiition contest.

Hawai`i Head Coach Laura Beeman said in a radio interview Wednesday that she felt it was important to continue to schedule games between both schools.

“We had a great game last time,” said Beeman. “With both programs, we’re trying to grow them, so you’ll see that continue year in and year out. I think both of us want to do that. It’s great for the community. It’s great for the kids. It’s going to be a fun night.”

“We are grateful for the opportunity and we look for ward to playing them,” said UH-Hilo’s David Kaneshiro.

The game will serve as the season opener for both teams. Tip-off is slated for 7:00 p.m. at Manoa’s Stan Sheriff Center.

Konawaena graduates return to Hawai`i

Konawaena High School graduates Lia Galdeira and Dawnyelle Awa will return to the islands to represent Washington State University in November.

Konawaena graduates Dawnyelle Awa (left) and Lia Galdeira (right) will return to the islands in November to play Hawai`i. WSU photo.

Hawai`i announced that the Cougars are part of a four-team field, including the host Rainbow Wahine, Mississippi, and West Virginia, that will participate in the Bank of Hawai`i Rainbow Wahine Classic, held Nov. 15-17. Hawai`i and Washington State will face each other on the opening night of the tournament with a tip time of 7:00 p.m.

“The Washington State game will be fantastic because of the local connection, to bring the kids back home,” said Beeman. “June Daugherty does a great job there and so we are looking forward to, if you will, that little reunion.”

The pair of former Wildcats were featured prominently by Cougars’ head coach June Daugherty. Galdeira started in 28 of the 31 games played. She led the team with 14.8 points per game and 5.2 rebounds per game. She also led the team with the most field goals, three pointers made, free throws made, total rebounds, steals, and total points.

Awa started in 13 of Washington State’s 31 contests. She averaged 2.6 points per game and 16.9 minutes played.