Notes and thoughts on Hawaii hoops

From a long time fan and observer of Rainbow Warrior basketball:

Many of the local sportswriters, sports announcers, et al who have come out to practices have been thoroughly impressed thus far with the number and quality of the new recruits. But, take nothing away from the returning players who have stepped it up. 

Bill Amis looks like he gained ten pounds of solid muscle and will definitely by the leader of this year’s team. Zane Johnson should he play like he practices will be a pleasant surprise and probably be the designated shooter of this squad and should start at the 2 or perhaps the 3. 

The probable starters project at vander joaquim at center with Kurtz pushing hard for playing time.  If none of these two pick up the new schemes then Amis will slide over from the PF position. Thomas should start at the 3, unless Amis goes to center. At which case Thomas would be the 4. All this could happen especially if Brumfield cannot go on opening day.  

Salter was pushing Thompson for the point until he hurt his foot and developed plantar fasciitis.  With that Bobby Miles has stepped up his game in practice and could be the surprise of the four freshmen. Uncle Hiram Thompson, the eldest of this team, seems like he has been around forever because of his two year mission and will lend his calm and maturity to this young upstart Warrior team.

Bo Barnes can light it up, but, needs to gain some strength and get better defensively. Same with Trevor Wiseman. Jordan Coleman is an athlete made for basketball - quick, runs the length, and has some nice hops. Once he also picks up a few pounds he will be hard to keep on the bench.

People are saying it is going to take awhile for this team to get it. My guess is that when WAC plays rolls along they will surprise many in the top tier of the WAC. Hawaii has a small active roster, in that only twelve will suit up with transfers Pi’I Minns, the Gatorade Player of the year for Hawaii two years ago and C Davis Rozitis sit out the mandatory one year.

Miah Ostrowski one time State POY in Hawaii, turned slotback on the Warrior football team, keeps talking about wanting to try out for hoops and so far that is all its been. It has been 2-3 years since he has competed on the hardwood so that may be just a wish list on his part, although the team could use him if he is up to it just to facilitate practices and especially if Anthony Salter is out for a prolonged period of time.

Exhibition game this Saturday against Chaminade.