HONOLULU - In preparation for its season-opener against No. 4 Michigan State, the Hawai'i men's basketball team routed Division II intra-state rival Hawai'i-Hilo, 110-55, Friday, at the Stan Sheriff Center. The Rainbow Warriors dominated every offensive category in their only exhibition before their Nov. 19 meeting with Spartans.

The 'Bows shot 57.5 percent for the game and six players scored in double figures. Senior forward Matthew Gipson led the way with 18 points and six rebounds while newcomer Ahmet Gueye wowed the crowd with his rebounding and blocks. The junior finished the game with 16 points, nine rebounds, and five blocked shots.

UH came out firing in the first half, using a 19-1 run to break the game wide open. The 'Bows led 63-23 at the half with guards Matt Gibson and Matt Lojeski combining for 26 points and six 3-pointers.

Midway through the period, UH-Hilo forward Joe Travis, who sat out last season with a knee injury, went down with dislocated left ankle. The Vulcans came into the game ranked No. 23 in the preseason Division II poll.

The 'Bows finished the game with 14 3-pointers and 30 assists. UH also out-rebounded the Vulcans, 50-26.

Next week's season-opener is billed a "White-Out" and all fans are encouraged to wear white shirts. Tip-off is set for 1:05 p.m. Individual tickets for all UH home games, including Saturday's Michigan State game, go on sale to the public on Monday.

Box Score

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