Honolulu, O’ahu – The University of Hawai’i men’s volleyball team is set to host the 30th OUTRIGGER Volleyball Invitational, a premier in-season event, from Thursday, March 12 through Saturday, March 14 at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center. The tournament will showcase a highly competitive field, including the top-ranked UCLA Bruins (16-0), No. 14 Lewis University (12-7), and Mount Olive University (8-4). This year’s invitational marks a significant milestone, celebrating three decades of elite collegiate volleyball in Hawai’i.
The OUTRIGGER Invitational has become a cornerstone of the men’s volleyball season, consistently attracting top programs from across the nation. This year is no exception, with UCLA arriving undefeated and eager to maintain their No. 1 ranking. Hawai’i, currently ranked third with a 15-2 record, will look to defend its home court and add to its impressive tournament history. Mount Olive will be making its debut in the OUTRIGGER, providing a fresh challenge for both Hawai’i and Lewis.
Fans attending the tournament will have opportunities to participate in special events and promotions. OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels is sponsoring the event, offering prizes including hotel accommodations and tickets to Cirque du Soleil’s new show, ‘Auana.’ Friday, March 13, will be a St. Patrick’s Day celebration as part of the “Da Kine” Series, encouraging fans to wear green and celebrate Hawai’i’s diverse cultures. Saturday, March 14, will feature a “Warrior Block Party” with rally towels for the first 5,000 fans and a performance by the Honolulu Festival.
Tournament Schedule and Broadcast Information
The tournament schedule is as follows:
- Thursday, March 12: UCLA vs. Lewis, 4:00 p.m.; Hawai’i vs. Mount Olive, 7:00 p.m.
- Friday, March 13: Mount Olive vs. UCLA, 4:00 p.m.; Hawai’i vs. Lewis, 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday, March 14: Lewis vs. Mount Olive, 4:00 p.m.; Hawai’i vs. UCLA, 7:00 p.m.
Hawai’i matches will be televised on Spectrum Sports, with Kanoa Leahey and Chris McLachlin providing commentary. All Hawai’i matches will similarly be streamed on ESPN+ (blacked out in Hawai’i). Radio coverage will be available on ESPN Honolulu (1500AM/92.7FM) on Thursday and Saturday, and on The New 1420 (1420AM) on Friday, with Tiff Wells calling the action. Streaming audio is available at ESPNHonolulu.com and through the ESPN Honolulu app. Live stats can be found at Hawaii.Statbroadcast.com.
Hawai’i’s OUTRIGGER Legacy
Hawai’i boasts a remarkable history in the OUTRIGGER Invitational, having secured 11 titles including five of the last eight tournaments (2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2024). The Rainbow Warriors hold an all-time tournament record of 55-30. Since 2016, Hawai’i has been particularly dominant, posting a 21-3 record in the OUTRIGGER. Head coach Charlie Wade’s team has also demonstrated success against MPSF opponents, going 37-8 since 2018, including a 5-1 record this season.
UCLA brings a formidable record to Honolulu, with nine OUTRIGGER titles and an overall record of 37-7. However, the Bruins haven’t lifted the trophy since 2014, despite their current undefeated season. Hawai’i holds a 20-2 all-time series lead over Lewis, including a seven-match winning streak and an 18-2 advantage in Honolulu. UCLA currently leads the all-time series against Hawai’i 66-31, having won the last two matchups in NCAA Championship tournament play.
The men’s volleyball team will also be auctioning off exclusive Hawai’i Flag Jerseys during the Warrior Block Party, with the auction opening on Friday, March 13, and closing on Monday, March 16, to support student-athletes.
The 30th OUTRIGGER Volleyball Invitational promises a weekend of high-level competition and exciting action. With the nation’s top teams converging in Honolulu, fans can expect thrilling matches and a celebration of collegiate volleyball. The tournament will provide a crucial test for all four teams as they navigate the remainder of the season and position themselves for postseason play.
Following the OUTRIGGER Invitational, Hawai’i will continue its season with upcoming matches to be announced. The results of this tournament will undoubtedly influence team rankings and NCAA tournament seeding, making it a pivotal event for all participants. Share your thoughts on the upcoming tournament and your predictions for the winners on social media using #HawaiiMVB and #WarriorBall26.
