HONOLULU – A new generation is carrying on a proud tradition at the University of Hawaii, as Brayton Correa and Kawika “KJ” Hallums, sons of former Rainbow Warrior standouts, now compete as teammates on the UH football team. Their fathers, La‘anui Correa and David “Kawika” Hallums, were iconic figures in Hawaii athletics, and their sons are determined to forge their own legacies while honoring the past.
The story of these two families is deeply intertwined with the history of UH sports. La‘anui Correa, a dominant defensive end, was a force on the football field in the early 2000s, while David Hallums captivated fans with his versatility as a basketball player in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Now, their sons are aiming to contribute to the Rainbow Warriors’ success, bringing with them not only athletic talent but also a profound sense of family pride and connection to the islands.
La‘anui Correa was known for his incredible physical prowess. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 250 pounds, he reportedly bench-pressed 500 pounds and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.6 seconds, according to lore surrounding his career. He started all 14 games at defensive end during the 2002 season, amassing 56 tackles and three sacks, and even had an interception that resulted in a touchdown as detailed in his UH Athletics profile. David “Kawika” Hallums, meanwhile, initially impressed during BYU’s player-run summer workouts despite not being a student there, before becoming a dynamic point guard who spearheaded a remarkable turnaround for the UH basketball team, elevating them from a 4-25 record in 1987-88 to 17-13 and an NIT berth the following season as reported by News-USA Today.
A Legacy Continues on the Gridiron
Brayton Correa, a freshman safety and nickelback, is already making an impact during spring training. He describes growing up hearing stories about his father’s accomplishments as “surreal,” noting that he often learned about his father’s legendary status from family members. “My dad didn’t tell me any stories given that he’s a humble guy,” Correa explained. “I had to hear it from all my uncles.” He embraces the challenge of living up to his father’s reputation, stating, “He was a different breed (of player). It’s substantial shoes to fill… I wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s the reason why I’m here and why I function so hard and the person I am.”
KJ Hallums, an offensive lineman, shares a similar sense of pride and responsibility. He recalls hearing about his father’s famous dunk after kissing the backboard during his senior night in 1989, a moment that Hallums senior declared was “better than statehood.” “It’s really a great feeling to have (UH sports) passed down a generation,” Hallums said. “It’s really that sense of community that Hawaii football is all about.”
From Hawaii to Las Vegas and Back
Both Correa and Hallums grew up in Hawaii before moving to Las Vegas to attend Bishop Gorman High School, a national football power known for its academic rigor. They both signed with the Warriors but delayed their enrollment until January of this year. Associate head coach Chris Brown, a former teammate and weight-training partner of La‘anui Correa, has been impressed with the younger Correa’s physicality, stating, “Typical Correa. That Correa bloodline is tough.”
Brayton Correa utilized the 2025 fall semester to focus on personal growth and training, taking two online classes while preparing for his role with the team. He described the experience as beneficial for his mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. KJ Hallums, inspired by his father’s resilience and hardscrabble background, also sought a new experience outside of Hawaii, believing it would foster personal growth. His father, who worked as a police officer, instilled in him a strong work ethic and a desire to avoid negative influences.
KJ Hallums plans to major in natural resources and environmental management, hoping to contribute to the preservation of his homeland. “I can represent both in sports and the classroom what I want to do to facilitate my homeland,” he said. “It’s a perfect spot for me.”
The legacy of the Correa and Hallums families extends beyond their sons. La‘anui Correa provided guidance to his four younger brothers, with Hoku Correa also playing defensive tackle for the Warriors and Kamalei Correa achieving success as a linebacker for Boise State and the Baltimore Ravens.
As both young athletes continue their collegiate careers, they carry with them the weight of expectation and the pride of a family deeply rooted in Hawaii’s athletic history. The coming seasons will reveal how they build upon the foundations laid by their fathers, and what new chapters they will write in the storied tradition of Rainbow Warrior athletics.
What will be the impact of this next generation of Warriors? Only time will tell, but the early signs are promising. Share your thoughts on this continuing legacy in the comments below.
