Hawaii Looks to Extend Hot Start in Big West Opener at UC Riverside RIVERSIDE, Calif. (Interstat) — A surging Hawaii men’s basketball team opens Big West Conference play on New Year’s Day against a UC Riverside squad seeking consistency, as the teams meet Thursday at the UCR Rec Center. The Warriors (10-2) enter 2026 with momentum, having won six straight games. Their most recent result was a 66-61 home victory over UTEP on Dec. 13, led by 22 points from Harry Rouhliadeff and 15 from Dre Bullock. Hawaii’s only losses this season came against Arizona State and in a tight contest with Utah Tech. The Highlanders (6-8), meanwhile, have faced a tough non-conference slate and are looking to rebound from a 97-65 loss at UCLA on Dec. 23. A bright spot in that defeat was junior forward Osiris Grady, who posted 20 points, five rebounds and five assists. Grady has been a consistent force, averaging 17.3 points over his last three games, including a 21-point effort at Saint Thomas. Hawaii’s strength has been its balanced attack and defensive pressure, holding opponents to an average of 64.2 points during its win streak. UC Riverside will need Grady and backcourt contributors like Andrew Henderson and Marqui Worthy to generate offense against a disciplined Warriors defense. The Highlanders have shown flashes, including a road win at Cal Poly and a 23-point victory over Stanton, but have struggled against high-major opponents. Protecting home court will be crucial as they navigate the start of conference play. This marks the first of two scheduled meetings between the teams this season. Hawaii’s conference journey continues Saturday at UC San Diego, while UC Riverside next plays at Cal State Bakersfield on Jan. 8. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST Thursday.