Men’s Basketball Team Hosts 59th OUTRIGGER Rainbow Classic Tournament
The University of Hawai’i men’s basketball team is set to host the 59th Annual OUTRIGGER Rainbow Classic tournament. This event will take place from November 12 to November 15 at the Bankoh Arena located in the Stan Sheriff Center, Honolulu. The tournament features four teams: the Rainbow Warriors, Mississippi Valley State, Manhattan, and Utah Tech.
Details of the Tournament
The OUTRIGGER Rainbow Classic is noted as the longest-running preseason collegiate basketball tournament in the United States. The University of Hawai’i aims to defend its title earned during the previous year, marking its 17th overall title.
- Opening Opponent: Mississippi Valley State
- Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2023
- Time: 7 p.m. HT
- Second Opponent: Manhattan
- Date: Friday, November 14, 2023
- Time: 7 p.m. HT
- Final Opponent: Utah Tech
- Date: Saturday, November 15, 2023
- Time: 7 p.m. HT
The attendance for these matches is expected to be high, with various promotions and events scheduled throughout the tournament. Spectators can enjoy exciting halftime activities and win prizes, including a one-night stay at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel.
Team Records and Stats
The Rainbow Warriors have a strong legacy in this tournament. Under the guidance of head coach Eran Ganot, they have a record of 19 wins and five losses in the Rainbow Classic. The team is looking to secure consecutive titles for the first time since 2001-2004.
Teams in the Tournament
Each of the competing teams comes with its unique dynamics:
- Mississippi Valley State: Currently 1-2 this season.
- Manhattan: At a record of 1-1, they recently defeated St. Joseph’s (Brooklyn) but lost to USC.
- Utah Tech: Finished their opening matches with a 2-2 record, highlighting standout player Chance Trujillo.
Fans should also note that the Rainbow Warriors are off to a strong start this season, having recently achieved a commanding 100-74 victory over East Texas A&M. This performance included several record-breaking stats, such as the new program highs for free throws made and attempted.
Community Engagement and Fundraising
An integral part of the tournament is the Coaches vs. Cancer mixer. This event, hosted by Coach Ganot, will be held on November 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The mixer aims to raise funds for the American Cancer Society’s T.C. Ching Hope Lodge, providing essential support to cancer patients and their families.
For more information about the OUTRIGGER Rainbow Classic, including updates on games and ticket purchases, fans can follow the University of Hawai’i men’s basketball team on social media or visit El-Balad. This tournament promises excitement, community spirit, and dynamic competition.
