By: Kennedy Choo

Gym 2 was filled with anticipation as the University of Hawai‘i Rainbow Wahine basketball team took the court to begin Fall Camp for the 2025–26 season.

After winning back-to-back Big West titles, head coach Laura Beeman enters her 14th season with a new-look squad featuring eight newcomers and seven returners. The mission remains the same: one final Big West championship before the team transitions to the Mountain West.

“We’re gonna pick up our pace, we’re gonna score more points,” Beeman said. “Defensively, we led the country in a few categories last year, and I think the kids were pretty excited about that.”

Senior forward Imani Perez, fresh off All-Big West Second Team and All-Defensive Team honors, is eager to build chemistry with the new group while defending their title.

“I’m pretty excited. I think everybody else on the team is excited,” Perez said. “Just to get a fresh start and for people to see this new team.”

As the longest-tenured Rainbow Wahine, Perez is stepping into a leadership role and embracing the opportunity to mentor younger players.

“I have a bigger role now, and I’m really grateful to be in this position and help out the young players,” she said.

Also returning is sophomore center Ritoriya Tamilo, last season’s Big West Freshman of the Year and record-holder for most blocks by a freshman with 41.

“I feel a lot more confident this year,” Tamilo said. “I got to learn from the seniors last year, so now I can help out a lot more this year.”

Tamilo added that the newcomers have already made a strong impression.

“They’re competitive—very strong as well.”

One of those newcomers is Bailey Flavell, one of the youngest members of the New Zealand Senior National Team, the Tall Ferns. For Tamilo, a fellow Kiwi, the connection is especially meaningful.

“That’s my sister,” Tamilo said. “For us to be here right now, it’s a full-circle moment. I’m looking forward to the season.”

The Rainbow Wahine will open their season against Chaminade at 7 p.m. on October 21 at the Bank of Hawai‘i Arena inside the Stan Sheriff Center.