Hawaii Pacific University Women's Basketball Head Coach Ray Alvarado welcomes in his first recruiting class. This group is a selection of four-year, two-year, and high school student-athletes. One of the areas of concentration was finding players that can score with efficiency. With a nice group of returners, Coach Alvarado expects a well-balanced team.

Head Coach Comment: "As we continue rebuilding the women's basketball program, it was important to bring in student-athletes who understand our core values: Play Hard, Play Tough, Play with Passion, and Play Unselfish. These incoming athletes, along with our returners, fully embrace that." With a full offseason of workouts, a strong recruiting effort, and an assembled coaching staff, expectations are high for a competitive season with a mix of returners, transfers, and first-year players.

Incoming Players

• Alana Roberts – Forward/Post (D2 Tuskegee University, AL)
  Alana brings valuable experience from both the JUCO and D2 levels, having played for Coach Alvarado at College of the Sequoias, Calif., where she earned all-state honors.
  What Alana has to say about her commitment to HPU: "I chose Hawaii Pacific University because of its diverse cultural environment, small class size, and the unique opportunity to connect with students from all over the world. HPU offers the perfect balance between athletics, academics, and a peaceful lifestyle. I'm excited for this new opportunity and to connect with my teammates."

• Sarah Tait – Guard/Forward (JUCO, Butte College, CA)
  A high-IQ, hard-working player, Sarah joins from a state-caliber program, bringing a strong work ethic and versatility.
  What Sarah has to say about her commitment to HPU: "I chose HPU because of the beautiful location and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity it offers. Getting a great education while competing at a high level on the court was what sold me! Plus, Coach Alvarado made the recruiting process simple and exciting."

• Guadalupe Vazquez – Guard (JUCO, East Los Angeles College, CA)
  Known as a prolific scorer, Lupe adds firepower and range to the team, capable of scoring from anywhere on the floor.
  What Guadalupe has to say about her commitment to HPU: "I chose HPU because of my connection with Coach Alvarado, whom I knew from California. I feel this is where God has called me to continue my education and basketball journey. I'm excited for this opportunity to play at the next level and can't wait to meet my teammates and have a memorable year!"

• Serenity Santos – Guard/Forward (JUCO, San Joaquin Delta, CA)
  Serenity is a versatile scorer and dedicated student-athlete, bringing strong leadership from another state powerhouse.
  What Serenity has to say about her commitment to HPU: "I chose HPU for the campus life and the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. I also want to continue my education in Business Marketing while being a part of the women's basketball program. The beautiful Honolulu location provides an ideal setting for studying, playing collegiately, and living."

• Nicole Wertenberger – Guard (Freshman, Kamiakin High School, WA)
  A fierce competitor with a high basketball IQ, Nicole comes from a state power and is known for her scoring ability and leadership.
  What Nicole has to say about her commitment to HPU: "During the recruitment process, the players were very welcoming and seemed like teammates who push each other to help the team succeed. Coach Alvarado's coaching style fits how I enjoy playing, making it the perfect fit for me."

• Morgan Hawkins – Combo Guard (Freshman, Centennial High School, CA)
  Morgan, a McDonald's All-American nominee, brings a high motor, strong defensive skills, and explosive offensive capabilities to the court.
  What Morgan has to say about her commitment to HPU: "I chose HPU because after visiting the campus and meeting a few teammates, it immediately felt like home. I know I'll have a great support system both on and off the court. The warm welcome from the girls made my decision an easy one."