Sharks Weekly: HPU Women’s Basketball Builds on Experience, Unity Entering Year Two

Hawai‘i Pacific University women’s basketball enters its second season under head coach Brent Gibson with a stronger sense of identity and a roster looking to build on the foundation established a year ago.

Gibson joined Sharks Weekly alongside guards Serenity Santos, Anisa Torres and Kaile Cruz to discuss the program’s development, the importance of team chemistry and the expectations surrounding the Sharks’ upcoming season.

When Gibson took over the program, Santos was the only returning player. He brought in 15 newcomers, creating a roster that needed time to develop relationships and learn how to compete together.

Now, with nearly the entire group returning, Gibson sees a team that has grown from a collection of individuals into a more connected unit.

The difference has been noticeable in practice. Players understand the expectations, recognize the drills and have become more comfortable within the system. Gibson credited assistant coach Callie Jackson with helping him recognize just how far the program has progressed.

For Santos, the longest-tenured Shark on the roster, that growth has been especially meaningful. She helped Gibson establish his vision during the initial roster rebuild and now sees a team that has developed a family-like atmosphere.

Torres, meanwhile, was drawn to HPU by Gibson’s emphasis on creating a positive experience both on and off the court. That approach reflects the coach’s broader philosophy, shaped by years working in basketball and educational leadership.

While winning remains a priority, Gibson believes developing relationships and preparing student-athletes for life beyond basketball are equally important.

On the court, he wants the Sharks to compete on every possession, play with confidence and embrace a team-first mentality.

That message has resonated with Cruz, who pointed to discipline and consistency as defining characteristics of the group.

“If you’re disciplined, your days will look the same, but if you’re not disciplined, your years will look the same,” Cruz recalled Gibson telling the team.

For Cruz, that means showing up prepared, paying attention to the little things and supporting teammates throughout the season.

The Sharks are also looking forward to testing themselves against strong competition. HPU will face the University of Hawai‘i on October 21 before officially opening its regular season November 13–14 in a conference crossover challenge.

With a deeper roster and greater familiarity within the program, Gibson believes the Sharks have more flexibility to put players in positions where they can succeed.

As Year 2 approaches, the goal is to continue developing a competitive program built around accountability, relationships and shared success.

For Gibson, the foundation is no longer just about bringing players together. It is about turning that connection into something lasting for HPU women’s basketball.