Sharks Weekly: Fresh Faces, Familiar Heart — A New Chapter for HPU Women’s Basketball
Imagine stepping into a brand-new chapter of your favorite story, where the characters are refreshed but the core spirit remains unchanged. That's exactly what's unfolding for Hawai‘i Pacific University's women's basketball team as they gear up for an exciting new season. But here's where it gets intriguing: with a rookie head coach at the helm and a squad that's been almost entirely overhauled, is this the start of something groundbreaking, or just another rebuild in the making? Let's dive in and explore the fresh energy sweeping through the Sharks.
The latest Sharks Weekly episode, skillfully hosted by Bailey Furman, pulls back the curtain on the individuals and motivations propelling the team forward. At the center of it all is first-year head coach Brent Gibson, whose path to the Hawaiian Islands has been anything but straightforward. From his days as a college player in Florida, to coaching stints in Kentucky and Arkansas, Gibson eventually found his way to Hawai‘i, where he served as an assistant under the previous head coach, Ray Alvarado. Now, he's taken the reins of a program that's undergone a massive transformation, welcoming 15 new players and instilling a fresh sense of purpose.
Reflecting on his career ambitions, Gibson shared, 'I used to be all about climbing the coaching ladder,' but I've come to realize it's not about chasing championships—it's about creating something meaningful right where you are. And honestly, there's no better spot for that than here in Hawai‘i.' This shift in mindset forms the core of his coaching philosophy, emphasizing service, humility, and unity—principles he credits to his father, who was also a basketball coach. For beginners in the world of team sports, think of it like this: instead of focusing solely on winning games, Gibson is building a culture where every player feels valued and connected, much like a family working together toward shared goals.
As Gibson puts it, 'When you're on a team, it's not about individual glory. We emphasize being part of something larger than yourself.' And this is the part most people miss: how these values translate into real-life leadership on the court.
Embodying this approach are two standout seniors: local guard Kyra Tanabe, a two-time state champion from ʻIolani School, and forward Abbey Hadsell, who transferred from California's Sonoma State University. Tanabe, choosing to return home for her final year of eligibility, found the decision effortless. 'Playing in front of my family and friends is incredibly special,' she explained. 'Coach Gibson believed in me right from the start, and that trust made everything click.'
Hadsell's journey was more unexpected. When Sonoma State abruptly ended its athletics program, she was left searching for a new team. 'Coach Gibson was upfront with me—he wasn't sure if he'd become head coach yet, but he assured me he'd be sticking around either way,' she remembered. 'His honesty and reliability really set him apart.' Together, these two veterans are stepping up as role models for a youthful roster still figuring out its dynamics. Tanabe acknowledged the initial hurdles in adapting, but highlighted the team's positive vibe and open dialogue. 'Coach keeps his door open for us,' she noted. 'He truly listens, which has fostered trust from the very beginning.'
But here's where it gets controversial: Is prioritizing trust and communication over aggressive recruiting or flashy wins the right strategy for a rebuilding team? Some might argue that in competitive college sports, you need star power to succeed, while others see Gibson's approach as a refreshing antidote to the win-at-all-costs mentality. What do you think—does building from the heart outweigh chasing quick victories?
This sense of unity isn't confined to the basketball court; it's spilling into the community. Under Gibson's guidance, the Sharks are actively engaging in local initiatives, such as volunteering at Luluku Farms and traditional Hawaiian taro patches known as lo‘i (think of these as ancient, sustainable farming systems that have sustained island life for generations). They're also running an Elite Camp for aspiring young players and gearing up to support an upcoming Special Olympics event. For Gibson, these activities are as crucial as the games. 'Basketball is just one piece,' he said. 'It's about providing these young women with life-changing experiences—connecting with the land, the people, and the honor of representing Hawai‘i.'
Hadsell found the community work enlightening. 'I'd never tried working in a lo‘i before,' she chuckled. 'It was muddy and challenging, but absolutely incredible. You truly grasp what makes this island unique.' To put it simply for newcomers, these efforts aren't just feel-good extras; they're lessons in responsibility and cultural appreciation, helping players grow beyond the sport.
As the Sharks prepare for their inaugural exhibition game of the season—a local showdown against the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa—Gibson is zeroing in on long-term growth rather than immediate outcomes. 'We won't be at our peak in October,' he admitted. 'Our prime performance is reserved for February and March. This is all about playing the long game.'
With a roster full of new talent, a revitalized mission, and a coach dedicated to laying strong foundations, HPU women's basketball is plunging into this exciting new phase. It's an era rooted in trust, cultural pride, and community ties. And this is the part that sparks debate: In an era where college sports often prioritize revenue and rankings, is Gibson's community-focused model a bold innovation or a risky gamble? Could this approach redefine success in women's basketball, or is it destined to struggle against more traditional powerhouse programs? We'd love to hear your thoughts—do you agree that building character trumps chasing titles, or do you see potential pitfalls in this strategy? Share your opinions in the comments below and let's discuss!
