The University of Hawai'i men's basketball program participated in its fourth literacy event of the fall as head coach Gib Arnold and three players visited Waikiki Elementary in a continued effort to raise awareness for literacy.
 
"We had a wonderful time at Waikiki Elementary this morning," Arnold said. "We are excited to partner with another school on our 'Give Back Hawaii' initiative."
 
"Give Back Hawaii" was developed by Arnold to serve local communities. Other points of emphasis include anti-bullying and promoting a culture of respect for women.
 
The morning literacy event began with an assembly that featured a hype video, player introductions, and a keynote speech delivered by Arnold. Waikiki Elementary administrators also used the opportunity to launch their "Million Minutes of Reading" campaign. The campaign was forged in partnership with Arnold's program, and will reward students for reaching certain reading benchmarks by granting them free admission to a Dec. 29 game against Southern University.
 
Joining Arnold at the event was standout Isaac Fotu. The junior big man earned all-Big West honors last year and recently returned from the FIBA Basketball World Cup, where he represented his native New Zealand. Also in attendance for the event was junior guard Quincy Smith and sophomore forward Stefan Jankovic. Following the assembly, Arnold and his players split up and read to classrooms.
 
"I really enjoyed reading to the students at Waikiki Elementary," Fotu said. "It will be great to have them come to a game of ours."
 
Smith also felt strongly about the event.
 
"The kids at this morning's event were a lot of fun," Smith said. "It always feels good to give back to the community."
 
Waikiki Elementary has a student population of nearly 500, ranging from kindergarten through the fifth grade. The men's basketball team has participated at four literacy events, spanning from Honolulu to the Leeward Coast. Arnold plans to continue "Give Back Hawaii" later this month when he will take his program to Kainalu Elementary in Kailua.