The University of Hawaii is locking in its leader for the future, announcing an agreement in principle on a contract extension for men's basketball head coach Eran Ganot. Athletic Director Matt Elliott made the announcement, signaling a strong vote of confidence in the coach who has revitalized the program.

This move ensures stability for the Rainbow Warriors as they prepare for a major transition, jumping from the Big West to the competitive Mountain West Conference. Final details of the formal agreement are being worked out, but the commitment to Ganot's vision is clear.

Elliott praised Ganot's adaptability in the modern college sports era, stating, "In navigating the transfer portal and new NIL landscape to lead UH back to the NCAA Tournament, Coach Ganot has proven to be the right leader for our future." He also highlighted the program's success under Ganot's "student-first" philosophy, which emphasizes achievement both on the court and in the classroom.

For his part, Coach Ganot expressed gratitude and excitement for the road ahead. "My family and I love this university and this community," he said. "We are eager to continue what we started here, building off our recent Big West Championship as we prepare for the exciting challenge of moving into the Mountain West Conference." He also gave a shoutout to the passionate UH fanbase, inviting them to pack the Stan Sheriff Center once again.

The extension is a well-earned reward for Ganot's successful tenure. Since taking over in 2015, he has amassed nearly 200 career wins, including three 20-win seasons in the last four years. The crowning achievement of the recent campaign was a 24-9 record and the 2026 Big West Championship, which punched the team's ticket to the NCAA Tournament. This latest success solidifies his legacy, making him only the second coach in program history, alongside legend Riley Wallace, to lead the Rainbow Warriors to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.