The University of Hawai'i announced today that its men's basketball program will welcome ten new athletes for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, marking a pivotal moment as the team steps into its first year in the Mountain West Conference. Coach Greg Ganot praised the incoming class, saying the blend of skill sets and backgrounds positions the Rainbow Warriors for a competitive start.
A Fresh Wave of Talent
Among the newcomers is Marcus Adams Jr., a 6‑8 forward who previously shone at Arizona State before a standout season at CSUN, bringing size and versatility to the paint. Freshman Scotty Belnap, a 6‑5 guard from Mater Dei High School, joins after a highly anticipated high school career, while Tiger Cuff returns from a two‑year missionary stint in Brazil, adding poise and work ethic. Houran Dan, a 6‑10 center from China with two seasons at Seattle, and Zack Davidson, a 6‑9 forward who started 13 games at Northern Arizona before a season‑ending injury, round out the interior options.
The roster also features Bol Dengdit, a 6‑11 forward/center from Australia who earned experience at UC San Diego, and Kellen Hampton, a 6‑7 forward who spent a year at Pacific before redshirting, giving the team depth at the wing. Manie Joses, a 6‑7 forward from England with two seasons at Davidson College, and Jaden Matingou, a 6‑3 guard who excelled for three years at Division II Point Loma, bring international flair and shooting precision. Chance Trujillo, a 6‑4 guard from Utah Tech, adds backcourt dynamism after a productive season in the conference.
Coach Ganot emphasized that the new class reflects the program’s commitment to recruiting globally while maintaining a competitive edge in the Mountain West. The coaching staff believes the mix of size, skill and experience will allow the Rainbow Warriors to compete fiercely from the outset.
A Global Mix of Talent
The diversity of the incoming class extends beyond geography, encompassing a range of playing styles and backgrounds. From the hard‑working ethos of a former missionary to the polished fundamentals of a high‑school standout, each player brings a unique contribution that could shape the team’s identity. The coaching staff has already begun integrating these athletes into the program’s culture, focusing on cohesion and resilience as the season approaches.