HONOLULU — Fresh off an NCAA Division II Tournament appearance, the Hawai'i Pacific men's basketball program continues to build a strong recruiting class with the additions of Keonjay Carter and Will Woodward.
Head coach Jesse Nakanishi and the Sharks have added two experienced impact players who bring toughness, versatility, and winning experience to Honolulu. Carter, a veteran guard from Buffalo, New York, arrives after stops at Lawson State Community College and Roberts Wesleyan University, while Woodward joins the Sharks following an award-winning campaign at Bellevue College in the NWAC.
Carter, a 6-foot-2 redshirt junior, served as a co-captain at Roberts Wesleyan last season while averaging 11.6 points per game across 27 games (26 starts). He connected on 37.6 percent of his three-point attempts, earning a reputation as a mature two-way player capable of defending at a high level while stretching the floor offensively. His leadership, defensive intensity, and shooting touch provide another experienced piece for HPU's backcourt.

"I chose HPU because I instantly felt like family and enjoyed my recruiting process. I am most excited for the basketball season to start!" — Keonjay Carter

Woodward, a 6-foot-7 forward from Sammamish, Washington, comes to Hawai'i Pacific after helping Bellevue College post an impressive 29-3 record during the 2025-26 season. The reigning NWAC Player of the Year averaged 16.2 points and 8.2 rebounds while playing just 22 minutes per game, showcasing his efficiency, physicality, and relentless motor on both ends of the floor.

"I chose HPU because of the community and family it provides and the success of the program. I am most excited about learning how to surf!" — Will Woodward

Together, Carter and Woodward continue HPU's impressive offseason as the Sharks reload following one of the most successful seasons in program history. Their experience, leadership, and winning backgrounds complement a roster that continues to blend proven veterans with talented newcomers from across the country.

"Keonjay's experiences and successes competing in a tough league on both sides of the ball will translate exceptionally here at HPU," said Head Coach Jesse Nakanishi. "Will's physicality and toughness is exactly what we were looking to add to our roster."

The additions of Carter and Woodward further strengthen a Sharks team coming off an NCAA Tournament appearance and reinforce Hawai'i Pacific's commitment to recruiting versatile, high-character student-athletes. Carter's defensive presence and perimeter shooting, combined with Woodward's physicality, rebounding, and proven production, add two more dynamic pieces as the Sharks look to compete for another PacWest Conference championship and NCAA Tournament berth during the 2026-27 season.