Thanksgiving is more than just a time for gathering with loved ones—it’s also the perfect moment for basketball enthusiasts to celebrate the start of the winter season. For fans in Hawai‘i, this excitement is marked by the prestigious 3rd Annual I Mua Invitational, hosted at my alma mater, Kamehameha Kapālama.
This year’s tournament is bigger and better, featuring two competitive brackets of eight teams each. The Blue Bracket boasts a powerhouse lineup, including perennial juggernaut Mater Dei from California, Canyon View (Arizona’s defending 5A State Champions), ‘Iolani (Hawai‘i Division 1 State Champions), Kamehameha Kapālama (Division 1 State Runner-Up), Kahuku (OIA powerhouse), and Maryknoll (Division 2 State Champions). Due to a last-minute change preventing one mainland team from traveling, the final Blue Bracket spot will feature showcase games by Radford, Punahou, and Mid-Pacific Institute.
The White Bracket will adopt a showcase format, featuring teams such as Kamehameha Kapālama (D1AA), Sacred Hearts, Roosevelt, Farrington, Kaiser, Kailua, Hawai‘i Baptist Academy, and Kapolei. Blue Bracket games will take place at Kamehameha Kapālama, while White Bracket matchups will unfold at Farrington High School.
Fans can access schedules and results on the official tournament website at Exposure Events or via the GC3 Hoops App, available on both Apple and Google Play Stores.
I’m thrilled to share that this year’s tournament will receive extensive media coverage from outlets like Hawai‘i Sports World (Star-Advertiser), ScoringLive, ESPN Honolulu, and GC3 Hoops. Highlights and standout performances will also be featured on @GC3Hoops across Instagram, X, Facebook, and the official website, GC3Hoops.com.
The I Mua Invitational is more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of the talent and passion that make high school basketball in Hawai‘i so special. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just looking to enjoy competitive hoops over the holiday weekend, this event is not to be missed!
