The University of Hawaii men's basketball program is adding a major piece to its future, securing a commitment from 6-foot-6 multi-purpose guard Tiger Cuff. This exciting acquisition brings a talented player into the fold and sets the stage for a special family reunion on the hardwood.
Tiger, the younger brother of current Rainbow Warrior Tanner Cuff, will join the team in June after completing a church mission in Brazil. He will have five years of eligibility to play four seasons, giving UH a long-term asset with significant upside.
A standout at American Fork High in Utah, Tiger originally committed to Weber State—his father Ryan's alma mater—during his senior year in 2024. However, when Weber State's head coach moved into a non-coaching role last month, Tiger reopened his recruitment, creating a perfect opportunity for Hawaii.
"I was like, 'Gibson (Johnson), you need to get on him right away,'" Tanner Cuff recalled telling the UH assistant coach. The family was impressed by Hawaii's recent success and Tanner's positive experience, making it an ideal fit. "With the great feedback from Tanner and, of course, the great season Hawaii had, it felt like it would be a great fit for Tiger, as well," said their father, Ryan, a highly successful Utah high school coach.
The Cuff brothers bring a potent combination of skills to the backcourt. Both possess high basketball IQs, excel at ball-handling, and are active weak-side rebounders. The 6-7 Tanner is known for creating offense off the dribble, while Tiger is regarded as the more polished outside shooter. "They're really basketball minded," Ryan Cuff said. "They grew up with a basketball in their hands since they were in the crib."
Despite their close bond, a five-year age difference (Tanner is 25, Tiger is 20) means this will be the first time the brothers have ever been teammates. "He plays the game the right way," Tanner said. "I'm super excited to play with him."
And yes, the name is real. Ryan Cuff clarified that "Tiger" had nothing to do with golf legend Tiger Woods. "His middle name is Luke. It's a family name... I said if it didn't fit, we could always go with his middle name. He always stayed Tiger. He definitely fits. He's a tiger on the basketball court, for sure." With his tenacity and skill set, Tiger Cuff is poised to make that name resonate throughout the Big West.