The University of Hawaii men’s basketball team continued its strong performance by defeating the California State University, Northridge (CSUN) Matadors with a score of 85-72 on January 24, 2026. This victory at the Bankoh Arena in Honolulu keeps Hawaii at the top of the Big West Conference standings.
Hawaii’s center, Isaac Johnson, was a standout player during the game, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. He scored a total of 20 points and showcased his defensive skills by blocking multiple shots, including an attempt from CSUN guard Joshua O’Garro. Johnson’s presence in the paint proved crucial in maintaining Hawaii’s momentum throughout the match.
The first half saw Hawaii take an early lead, with forward Gytis Nemeiksa making a notable impact by sinking several three-point shots. Nemeiksa’s scoring ability helped Hawaii establish a solid foundation, allowing them to maintain control of the game. As the first half concluded, Hawaii led by 10 points, setting the stage for the second half.
In the latter part of the game, Hawaii’s guard AJ Economou also made significant contributions, pulling down key rebounds and assisting in fast breaks. His performance added depth to the team’s strategy, making it difficult for CSUN to mount a comeback. The continued offensive pressure from Hawaii kept CSUN’s defense on its heels.
Despite CSUN’s efforts to close the gap, including a late surge from forward Davius Loury, Hawaii managed to hold on to their lead. The Matadors struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Hawaii defense, which was instrumental in limiting their scoring opportunities.
With this win, Hawaii improved its conference record to 7-0, reinforcing their position as a formidable contender in the Big West. The team’s chemistry and resilience have been evident throughout the season, raising expectations as they approach the midway point of the conference schedule.
Looking ahead, Hawaii will aim to maintain its winning streak in the upcoming games. The victory over CSUN not only solidifies their top spot but also boosts team morale as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in the season.
