A New Era for Hawaii Basketball
The University of Hawaii announced Tuesday that it has secured the commitment of Lueth Awan, a 6‑foot‑7 guard/wing who spent the past two seasons in Australia's National Basketball League. The announcement marks a significant addition to the Rainbow Warriors' roster as they look to build on recent successes.
A Journey Across Oceans
Awan grew up in Sydney, where he began playing soccer before switching to basketball in 2020. Standing 6‑foot‑2 at the time, he experienced a growth spurt that added five inches in a single year, reshaping his game into a versatile perimeter threat. His development was nurtured at a Police‑Citizens Youth Club gym, a common pathway for many Australian prospects.
Mentorship from a Basketball Legend
The decision was heavily influenced by Matthew Dellavedova, a four‑time Olympian and NBA champion who now serves as a mentor for Awan. Dellavedova, who played college basketball at Saint Mary's College of California, recommended the forward to UH coaches after recognizing a shared skill set and work ethic.
UH head coach Eran Ganot, who previously served as an assistant at Saint Mary's during Dellavedova's tenure, highlighted Awan's accurate three‑point shooting, ability to drive to the basket, pull‑up jumpers and stifling defensive presence. Ganot noted that Awan's vertical leap of roughly 40 inches adds a dynamic athletic dimension to the team.
Experience and Endorsements
Awan's professional résumé includes a developmental stint with the Sydney Kings, who captured the 2025‑26 NBL championship in April. He also logged two seasons with the North Bears in the NBL1 and shared the court with former Hawaii player Junior Madut, whose endorsement further bolstered the prospect's appeal to the program.
Beyond statistics, Awan values the competitiveness of close games and the camaraderie that comes with high‑level play. As he prepares to join the Rainbow Warriors, he brings a global perspective and a hunger to contribute immediately over the next three years of NCAA eligibility.