URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated NCAA men’s basketball season opener between the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors and the Oregon Ducks takes place tonight at 10:30 PM ET at Matthew Knight Arena. Fans can catch all the action live on the Big Ten Network or stream it for free via Fubo!
This matchup marks a critical moment for the Rainbow Warriors, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw them finish with a 15-16 overall record and just 7-13 in conference play. Under the leadership of standout forward Gytis Nemiksa, a transfer from Xavier, Hawaii aims to reclaim its former glory. Nemiksa, standing at 6-foot-7, averaged 12.3 points and 5.6 rebounds per game last season, demonstrating his potential to lead the team.
On the other side, the Ducks are poised for a strong season, returning 45.1% of their scoring from last year, which ended with a 25-10 record. They suffered a narrow defeat in the NCAA Tournament’s second round against No. 4 Arizona. Junior guard Jackson Shelstad is set to shine tonight after averaging 13.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 2.7 assists last season, with impressive shooting stats of .451/.379/.835. He teams up with senior center Nate Bittle to form a formidable duo in the Big Ten.
This game is not just about statistics; it’s a chance for both teams to set the tone for their seasons. With Hawaii aiming to recover from last year’s struggles and Oregon looking to build on their success, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Don’t miss out on this thrilling opener! Live stream Hawaii vs Oregon on the Big Ten Network or through Fubo now! Be sure to check for regional restrictions.
Stay tuned for updates as the game unfolds!
