The Hawai'i Pacific women's basketball team, under the helm of first-year head coach Ray Alvarado, returns to the Shark Tank at the Hoops in Hawai'i Classic this Tuesday. With a current record of 2-5 and a promising 1-1 start in the PacWest Conference, the Sharks are set to showcase their tenacity in a captivating non-conference clash against perennial NAIA powerhouse, Carroll College.

As the team charts a new course under Coach Alvarado's leadership, the statistics unveil a story of growth and determination. Averaging 54.4 points per game, the Sharks will look to improve their offensive production. Shooting 32% from the field, 26% from beyond the arc, and  70% from the free-throw line as Hawai'i Pacific is refining its offensive arsenal for the battles that lie ahead.

By far the Sharks' biggest strength this season is their relentless defensive play. In the opening weeks of PacWest play, their opponents are scoring 33% less than their average points per game against HPU. Average of 34.1 rebounds, 8.3 assists, 7.1 steals, and 6.1 blocks per game, Alavarado's squad will look to neutralize the scoring ability of Carrol's Jamie Pickens (18.8ppg) Tuesday afternoon. 

Leading the charge is Erika Glenn, a dynamic transfer from Western Oregon, lighting up the scoreboard with an impressive 12 points per game. Complementing her offensive prowess is Megan Jones, a transfer from UC Davis, who dominates the defensive end with an astounding 3.71 blocks per game and contributes 6.3 rebounds to fortify the paint.

As the Hoops in Hawai'i Classic unfolds, witness the emergence of a resilient and evolving Hawai'i Pacific women's basketball team. Alvarado's inaugural season promises to be a turning point, and the clash against Carroll College is a pivotal moment in this journey.