Get ready for a thrilling new chapter in the world of college basketball! Hawai‘i Pacific University’s women’s team is back, but this time, it’s not just about the game—it’s about a revolution in culture, community, and heart. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just the players who are changing; it’s the entire philosophy behind the program. The latest episode of Sharks Weekly, hosted by Bailey Furman, dives deep into this transformation, giving fans an exclusive look at the fresh faces and the familiar spirit driving the Sharks forward under first-year head coach Brent Gibson.
Gibson’s journey to Hawai‘i is a story of persistence and purpose. From his college basketball days in Florida to coaching stints in Kentucky and Arkansas, he’s finally found his home in the islands. After serving as an assistant under former head coach Ray Alvarado, Gibson now takes the helm of a nearly rebuilt program, bringing with him 15 new players and a vision that goes beyond the court. But here’s where it gets controversial: Gibson believes that success isn’t about chasing titles—it’s about building something meaningful right where you are. Is he right? Or is the pursuit of championships still the ultimate goal?
‘I used to think climbing the ladder was everything,’ Gibson shared. ‘But I’ve learned that true fulfillment comes from creating a legacy, not just winning games. And there’s no better place to do that than here.’ This philosophy is rooted in values like service, humility, and unity—lessons he credits to his father, also a basketball coach. ‘Being part of a team means putting the collective above the individual,’ Gibson told Furman. ‘We’re here for something bigger than ourselves.’
Two players embodying this mindset are Kyra Tanabe, a local guard and two-time state champion from ʻIolani School, and Abbey Hadsell, a forward who transferred from Sonoma State in California. Tanabe, returning home for her final year, was drawn by the chance to represent Hawai‘i once again. ‘Playing in front of my family and friends is priceless,’ she said. ‘Coach Gibson’s trust in me from day one made my decision easy.’
Hadsell’s story is equally compelling. When Sonoma State abruptly ended its athletics program, she found herself at a crossroads. ‘Coach Gibson was upfront with me,’ she recalled. ‘He didn’t know if he’d be named head coach yet, but he promised he’d be here no matter what. That honesty and consistency stood out.’ Together, these seniors are emerging as leaders on a young team still finding its rhythm. Tanabe admits the transition hasn’t been seamless but praises the team’s positive, communicative atmosphere. ‘Coach always keeps his door open,’ she said. ‘His willingness to listen has built trust from the start.’
Gibson’s impact extends far beyond the court. Under his leadership, the Sharks have immersed themselves in community service—volunteering at Luluku Farms, working in local lo‘i patches, hosting youth camps, and preparing for the Special Olympics. For Gibson, these experiences are as vital as any game. ‘It’s about giving these young women opportunities to grow,’ he explained. ‘To understand the land, the people, and the responsibility of representing Hawai‘i.’
Hadsell found the service work eye-opening. ‘Working in the lo‘i was messy but amazing,’ she laughed. ‘It showed me what makes this place so special.’ As the Sharks gear up for their first exhibition game against the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Gibson is focused on resilience over results. ‘We won’t peak in October,’ he said. ‘Our best basketball needs to come in February and March. This is about the long game.’
With new faces, a renewed sense of purpose, and a coach dedicated to building from the ground up, HPU women’s basketball is diving headfirst into a new era—one rooted in trust, culture, and community. But what do you think? Can a program truly thrive by prioritizing values over victories? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
