The stage was set at UCLA's legendary Pauley Pavilion—a venue synonymous with volleyball greatness—and Hawaii made sure it left its own mark on the historic floor. The second-seeded Rainbow Warriors captured their third national championship since 2021, defeating UC Irvine in four sets (15-25, 25-18, 25-18, 25-20) to complete the program's first 30-win season.
It was a tale of two matches within one. After getting shellacked in the opening set, Hawaii flipped a switch, playing near-flawless volleyball to storm back and secure the title. The Rainbow Warriors (30-5) hit just .167 with seven errors in that first set, but they rebounded with surgical precision—posting a .452 or better hitting percentage in each of the final three frames while committing only eight attack errors the rest of the way.
"We've built something that is unique on the planet," said head coach Charlie Wade, who has now led Hawaii to championships in 2021, 2022, and 2025. "We're continuing to get better and build a better roster, and this is just the next step forward."
Hawaii's balanced attack was on full display. Kristian Titriyski delivered a match-high 16 kills, including the championship-clinching strike in the fourth set. Adrien Roure added 15 kills and a team-best seven digs, while tournament Most Outstanding Player Louis Sakanoko contributed 12 kills, six digs, and three blocks—hitting an impressive .500. Sakanoko also rattled off three consecutive aces early in the fourth set to give Hawaii an 8-6 lead they never relinquished.
Setter Tread Rosenthal orchestrated the comeback with poise beyond his years, noting the growth from last season's disappointing exit. "I've talked about this all season—I think we're just a more mature team this year. You saw that exact same first set last year against UCLA and we couldn't come back from it. You saw a different team this year just understanding that we're OK."
The win was especially sweet given the circumstances. Neither finalist won their conference title—Hawaii finished second in the Big West to Long Beach State, while UC Irvine was third. But in the first 12-team NCAA Tournament ever played, the Rainbow Warriors went 3-0 to claim the ninth overall NCAA team championship in University of Hawaii history.
For volleyball fans and gear enthusiasts alike, this championship run is a reminder that resilience, teamwork, and a balanced attack can overcome any early setback. Whether you're repping the Rainbow Warriors or just appreciate championship-caliber play, this title adds another chapter to Hawaii's growing dynasty in men's collegiate volleyball.