HONOLULU – The Hawaii Pacific University women's basketball team took the court for the first time in the 2026-27 season Wednesday evening, facing Division I University of Hawaii in an exhibition matchup at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center.

The contest provided the Sharks with an early opportunity to gain valuable game experience, evaluate their lineup, and compete against Division I opposition ahead of the regular season. Hawaii ultimately took the exhibition, 90-38.

KalysaMarie Ng and Cori Wilcox led the Sharks with six points apiece. Ng knocked down a pair of three-pointers, while Wilcox provided an efficient presence inside, shooting 3-for-4 from the field and pulling down four rebounds.

Four additional Sharks contributed five points each, including Kaile Cruz, Mia Frye, Jalen Samuel, and Kyla Hopton. Cruz made her presence felt defensively with a game-high four steals, while Frye added two assists. Hopton connected from beyond the arc and recorded a blocked shot.

HPU found its offensive rhythm in the second quarter, scoring 13 points, including three three-pointers, after a challenging opening period. The Sharks finished the evening with nine steals and 16 points from their bench.

The exhibition served as an early measuring stick for HPU, offering the team an opportunity to identify areas for growth and build chemistry before the games begin to count toward the regular-season standings.

With their first outing behind them, the Sharks will look to carry the experience forward as they continue preparations for the 2026-27 season.