HONOLULU — Coming off an NCAA Division II Tournament appearance, the Hawai'i Pacific men's basketball program has added another proven Division III standout to the mix.

Head coach Jesse Nakanishi and the Sharks continued their aggressive offseason reload with the signing of former Husson University star Eric Ahlers, a dynamic wing scorer who put together one of the top individual seasons in the North Atlantic Conference this past year.

The 6-foot-5 veteran arrives in Honolulu after a breakout senior campaign in which he averaged over 20 points and nine rebounds per game while earning First Team All-NAC honors. Ahlers emerged as one of the most productive all-around players in the conference, helping lead Husson to a second-place finish in league play and one of the highest-scoring offenses in the NAC.

Recognized for his scoring ability and all-around impact, Ahlers brings a complete offensive package to HPU. He consistently produced at all three levels, shooting efficiently from the field while also knocking down over 60 three-pointers during the 2025-26 season. His ability to stretch the floor, rebound at a high level, and create offense gives the Sharks another major weapon on the perimeter heading into next season.

"I chose HPU because of the culture, the people, and the opportunity to continue both my academic and basketball career at a higher level in Hawaii. I'm excited to get out there, meet everyone, compete in a winning program on and off the court, and experience everything the islands have to offer." - Eric Ahlers

Ahlers recorded double figures in every game he appeared in last season and posted 14 double-doubles throughout the year. One of his top performances came in a late-season win over Maine Maritime, when he exploded for 35 points and 14 rebounds while catching fire from beyond the arc. He also closed the season playing some of his best basketball, scoring 20 or more points in five of Husson's final six games.
The addition continues a growing trend for HPU, which has found major success identifying Division III talent capable of making the jump to the Division II level. Former Shark standout Joshua West followed a similar path before developing into an All-Region performer and one of the top scorers in the PacWest Conference.

"We're thrilled to have Eric join our family. His experience and production at the Division III level will roll right into competing with the best in the PacWest." - Jesse Nakanishi

Ahlers becomes the latest portal addition for the Sharks alongside former University of South Carolina Beaufort guard Evan Kilminster and former University of Northern Iowa forward Marino Dubravčić. Combined with a strong returning core, the Sharks continue to build a roster capable of competing near the top of the PacWest once again.

HPU is expected to return several key contributors next season, including captain Avi Halpert, Nemanja Sarenac, Zane Gaul, Ike Sutton, and Shawn Villanea.