Playing six times in seven days with multiple trips to Oahu mixed in, it could be argued that UH-Hilo men’s basketball team was too busy earlier in the season.
The challenge these days is quite the opposite: The Vulcans haven’t been busy enough.
Taking the court for the first time since Dec. 12, UHH faces Holy Names at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium. Spectators are not allowed.
UHH (6-4, 2-1 PacWest) has only practiced twice, coach Kaniela Aiona said, since a 79-67 home win 26 days ago against Hawaii Pacific.
“I think that’s a great question,” Aiona said when asked if the challenge of having too much rest was greater than the one his team faced during a back-and-forth stretch in November.
“I think this is just part of the development of our program,” he said. “These are the experiences you have to go through.”
Aiona said the plan was for the Vuls to be at full strength against the Hawks (4-9, 2-3). Due to health and safety reasons, the coaching staff has opted to keep the team isolated at times since it got back from the holiday break.
“We’re going to have to shake off the rust pretty quick,” Aiona said. “Holy Names is well-coached, and they play with an edge.”
The Hawks suffered a tough one-point loss, 78-77, on Tuesday night at Chaminade. Earlier in the season, Holy Names beat the Silverswords 78-60.
The Hawks have played five games since UHH last took the court.
“We’ll just have to see how quickly we can get connected,” Aiona said.