Imagine a thrilling college basketball showdown where a team claws back from a halftime deficit to secure a hard-fought victory—this was the story of Hawai'i's 66-61 win over UTEP on December 13, 2025. But here's where it gets controversial: Was it Hawai'i's strategic second-half surge or UTEP's missed opportunities that truly decided the game? Let's dive in.
In a gripping matchup in Honolulu, Harry Rouhliadeff emerged as the hero for the Rainbow Warriors, pouring in 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds. His performance wasn’t just about scoring—it was about leadership, especially when his team needed it most. Dre Bullock added 15 points, showcasing efficiency with a 4-of-9 field goal performance and a near-perfect 6-of-7 from the free-throw line. Hunter Erickson chipped in with eight points, shooting an impressive 4-of-6 from the field. With this win, the Rainbow Warriors extended their winning streak to six games, solidifying their 10-2 record.
For UTEP, Jamal West led the charge with 12 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks, while Kaseem Watson matched his scoring output with 12 points and added two blocks of his own. Elijah Jones contributed 10 points and seven rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Miners from falling to 3-6 on the season.
The game’s turning point came in the second half when Hawai'i unleashed a 10-2 run, erasing a four-point deficit and taking a 55-51 lead with just 4:03 remaining. Bullock’s 10 second-half points were crucial in this comeback, but this is the part most people miss: UTEP had multiple chances to regain momentum but struggled to convert key shots down the stretch. Did Hawai'i’s defense outshine UTEP’s offense, or did the Miners simply falter under pressure? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
At halftime, Hawai'i trailed 29-25, but Rouhliadeff’s 12 first-half points kept them within striking distance. The Rainbow Warriors’ ability to adjust their strategy and dominate the second half raises questions about coaching tactics and player resilience. And here’s a bold interpretation: Could this game be a turning point for Hawai'i’s season, or is it just another close win in a long schedule? Share your take below.
This recap was crafted by The Associated Press, leveraging technology from Data Skrive and data from Sportradar, ensuring accuracy and depth in every detail.
