Hawaii Women’s Basketball Team Dominates Hilo in Preseason Exhibition on Big Island

The Hawaii women’s basketball team ventured outside its comfort zone for a preseason exhibition, showcasing a variety of lineups and strategies in a game against Hawaii Hilo. Coach Laura Beeman expressed her intention to experiment with different player combinations, aiming to assess team chemistry and identify areas for improvement.

The Rainbow Wahine displayed versatility on the court, with 13 players seeing action and 10 contributing points in their 69-50 victory over Hawaii Hilo. Beeman highlighted the significance of exhibition games in testing new approaches and evaluating team performance to make necessary adjustments.

Despite being the preseason favorite in the Big West conference, the Rainbow Wahine chose to play their annual preseason game at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium in Hilo, switching locations with the men’s team. The women’s team demonstrated dominance in the game, particularly in the second quarter when they outscored their opponents 21-2.

Key players like center Brooklyn Rewers and freshman Ritorya Tamilo made impactful contributions, showcasing their skills and potential within the team. The depth of the roster has intensified the competition during practices, as players strive to make the most of their playing time with fierce competition for minutes.

The exhibition game held special significance for players with connections to the Big Island, such as fifth-year senior Kelsie Imai, who delivered a strong performance in her hometown. The presence of former players and local supporters added to the memorable experience for the team, prompting Beeman to express interest in organizing more games on Neighbor Islands to engage with fans who may not have the opportunity to attend games on Oahu.

Following their game in Hilo, the Rainbow Wahine were scheduled to return home before heading to Maui for an exhibition doubleheader against Chaminade’s men’s and women’s teams. The upcoming matchups in Maui would provide another opportunity for the team to fine-tune their skills and build momentum as they prepare for the regular season.

The Hawaii women’s basketball team’s successful exhibition game in Hilo not only showcased their talent and depth but also fostered connections with fans and supporters on the Big Island. As they continue their preseason preparations, the Rainbow Wahine are focused on refining their gameplay and building a strong foundation for the upcoming season.