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HONOLULU – The University of Hawai'i men's basketball team began the 2011-12 campaign with an impressive 86-67 win over Cal State Northridge Monday night at the Stan Sheriff Center. The Rainbow Warriors led by just three points at halftime, but absolutely dominated after the break to win for the third time in four all-time appearances in ESPN's College Hoops Tipoff Marathon event.
 
Senior Zane Johnson picked up right where he left of last year, scoring a game-high 24 points, including six three-pointers. Trevor Wiseman enjoyed his best game yet as a Rainbow Warrior, recording his first career double-double (19 points, 16 rebounds) while leading the team with his hustle and energy. Junior center Vander Joaquim had 12 points and eight rebounds and freshman point guard Shaquille Stokes finished with 14 points and five assists in his collegiate debut.
 
As it was last season, defense was the hallmark for the 'Bows, who held the Matadors (0-2) to just 31 percent shooting for the game, including just 3-of-23 from three-point land.
 
The first half was full of runs with UH making the most significant one. The 'Bows fell behind 20-13 midway through the half but went on a 19-3 run to take a 32-23 lead. UH would eventually hold a 37-34 lead at the break, powered by 15 first-half points by Johnson.
 
Hawai'i broke the game open in the second half with an 11-2 run to take its first double-digit lead of the game. The 'Bows eventually built its lead to as many as 25 points and never looked back in handily winning over its future Big West rival.
 
UH now heads to the road for a showdown in Vancouver, Canada with No. 22 Gonzaga on Saturday, Nov. 19. Tipoff is 6:00 p.m. PT (4:00 p.m. HT) at Rogers Arena.