Aukai Wong Named Punahou Boys Basketball Head Coach

Punahou has named Aukai Wong as its new varsity boys basketball head coach.

Wong, a former Hawaiʻi Hilo player, takes over a Buff ’n Blue program that captured the 2025 HHSAA Division I state championship and finished as the state runner-up this past season.

Before accepting the position, Wong had expected to join the program as an assistant coach. He brings a diverse coaching background that includes roles as an assistant coach, player development coach and athletic director. Wong also spent a decade with the UH Hilo men’s basketball program in multiple capacities following his collegiate playing career.

Punahou enters the 2026-27 season under new leadership following the departure of longtime head coach Darren Matsuda, who led the Buff ’n Blue to three state championships during his 15 seasons at the helm.