Brian Flinn:
Future150 National Recruiting Analyst. Covering high school basketball nationally.
Manoa, HI (Future150) -- The Big Dance is finally here and while everyone would like to cut down the nets, there can only be one champion. That being said, there is always the chance that the next season could be better than the last. With that in mind, Future150 would like to introduce "The Next Step", a segment dedicated to breaking down each program's recruiting class as they bow out of the tournament; because theres' always next season.
Hawaii was a trendy pick to knock off Cal in the first round, and did just that. Led by seniors Quincy Smith and Roderick Bobbitt, Hawaii looked primed to upset Maryland as well, but fell short.
Eran Ganot has proved himself to be one of the top young coaches in the country, so there's little doubt that Hawaii would be back next year if it weren't for the penalties Hawaii received from actions under the Gib Arnold Regime . Assuming no one transfers out, 5 of the 9 players in the Rainbow Warriors' rotation will return, including Stefan Jankovic, Michael Thomas and Aaron Valdes, . It wouldn't be surprising to see Valdes, Jankovic, Thomas or Stefan Jovanovic leave for their senior season's, as they would be immediately eligible.
While they won't be able to play in any post season, Ganot has landed a pair of talented guards. Drew Buggs has good size for the lead guard position and can score it as well. Meanwhile, Austrailian product Matt Owies will join the Rainbow Warriors and will be ready to contribute thanks to his experience in international play.
Hawaii has some hard times ahead of them thanks to mistakes made by the previous staff. While their run this year was fun, it would be shocking if this group stayed together next season, or if Ganot was the head coach next season. It appears that some of this team is likely heading for greener pastures.
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