Kohala’s Layden Kauka Named Hawai‘i Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year

Kohala High School standout Layden Kauka has been named the 2025–26 Gatorade Hawai‘i Boys Basketball Player of the Year, recognizing him as the state’s top student-athlete on and off the court.

The 6-foot-1 senior guard led the Cowboys to a dominant 25-4 season and a Division II HHSAA state championship, averaging 26.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 3.1 steals per game. A three-time state champion, Kauka capped his career as the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player while showcasing efficiency across the board, shooting over 51% from the field and 41% from three.

Beyond basketball, Kauka has made an impact in the community through beach cleanups, literacy outreach, and church service, while maintaining a 3.0 GPA. Known for his all-around game and humility, he’s set to continue his career at the University of Hawai‘i-Hilo.

Kauka now joins an elite group of past Gatorade honorees, cementing his place among Hawai‘i’s all-time greats.