It was good talking with you after the ‘Iolani game on Monday. I’d like to add a couple of points to better clarify my position:

I believe that participating in the State Tournament should not only be competing for the championship trophy but also a reward for teams who have had a very good or exceptional season. When you are 15-18 years old it is a “larger than life” experience….something special that stays with your for a life time. In my opinion, the current format diminishes that experience.

The ultimate goal is to win the state championship and obviously only one team can achieve it. An opportunity to play in Stan Sheriff center for a consolation championship, regardless if it is a 9 am or 11 am game, is a pretty cool secondary goal. Along the way you may also have the chance to play against teams from other leagues that you do not normally get a chance to play against. This is especially true for neighbor island teams.

Thanks

Thank you, friends. Corrections duly noted and made 🙂
Mahalo!

Mr. Honda, I would like to correct you since I saw this game. Calvin Mattos hit the game tying 3 as he dribbled the ball in transition and hit a contested 3 from the left wing to tie the game. However, Calvin did not steal the inbounds and make the game winning lay-up.

Kiai Apele, a freshman off the bench made the steal and hit the game winning shot. Kiai, in addition to playing for Waiakea plays for his dad, Major Randy Apele of Hilo for Hoop Dreams. Kiai is also the little brother of former Kamehameha-Hawaii great, Lanaki Apele.

You can contact assistant coach Brandon Kauhi (also the girls coach at Waiakea) for authentication. He posted the video for all to see days ago.

Great job Kiai!