The Hawaii Pacific University Men's Basketball program is entering the 2025-26 season with momentum, continuity, and a wave of new talent. Head Coach Jesse Nakanishi and his staff have reloaded with a strong recruiting class while accomplishing something rare in today's era of college basketball — retaining every eligible returner from the 2024-25 squad.

Full Roster Retention — A Testament to Culture

In a college basketball landscape increasingly defined by roster turnover, HPU has returned every possible player from last season. The returning core includes All-PacWest standout Joshua West, former All-PacWest honoree Maj Dusanic, and key contributors Avi Halpert, Josh Niusulu, Casey Steadmon, Kemp Van Es, Ethan Taafe, J Marxen, and Justin Yap.

"This kind of player retention speaks volumes about the culture we're building," said Coach Nakanishi. "These guys believe in what we're doing, and they're hungry to keep climbing."

Impact Transfers Add Depth and Experience

The Sharks are also bolstering the roster with a versatile group of incoming transfers from all levels of college basketball:

• Quentin Meza (Idaho State University) – A dynamic lead guard with Big Sky experience and scoring punch.
• Nemanja Sarenac (Weber State University) – A skilled shooter and cerebral floor-spacer with Division I pedigree.
• Quinton McCullough (Purdue University Northwest) – A physical, yet skilled forward who brings toughness and rebounding prowess.
• Kahiau Bruhn (Willamette University) – A Hawaii native returning home, known for his high-flying athleticism.
• Shinichi Itoh (Cuesta College) – A crafty, sharpshooting guard with strong international experience.
• Shawn Villanea (Jefferson College) – An athletic, high-energy wing capable of guarding multiple positions.

Freshmen Join the Pipeline
HPU is also excited to welcome two promising freshmen who bring size, skill, and potential to the Sharks' future:

• Zane Gaul (Prescott HS, AZ) – A versatile forward with inside-out ability and big-time size.
• Ike Sutton (Hillcrest HS, ID) – A tough, gritty guard known for his defensive instincts and fearless play.

Looking Ahead
With the perfect blend of returning veterans and new talent, the Sharks are poised to build on last season's success and make noise in the PacWest Conference. The coaching staff — led by Nakanishi and supported by a cohesive group of assistants — enters the year energized and confident in the group they've assembled.

"I couldn't be more excited for this upcoming season of Sharks Basketball," Nakanishi said. "We will benefit from a roster led by a strong returning core and infused with impactful newcomers. The foundation has been laid and it's time for our breakthrough year!"

Stay tuned for schedule updates, player features, and behind-the-scenes content as the 2025 season approaches. Go Sharks!