Kaimuki-Mililani highlights D1 state tourney openers


Ashley Savusa has been key for Kaimuki all season, averaging 16.1 points per game, good for second best in the state. ScoringLive file photo
The second meeting between OIA Red division runner-up Kaimuki and West division power Mililani headline opening round play of the Hawaiian Airlines/HHSAA Girls State Championships.

Tip-off is set for approximately 7:00 p.m. at Moanalua.

Top-seed and defending champion Konawaena, along with 'Iolani, Lahainaluna and Pearl City have first-round byes and will begin play on Wednesday.


Kaimuki-Mililani at Moanalua (7 p.m.)

The Trojans, who completed an undefeated regular season at 10-0, look to rebound in the state tournament after dropping 3-of-4 games in the OIA Red playoffs, one of those losses coming at the hands of Kaimuki, 45-43.

Mililani's attack will run through their backcourt, led by Taylor Babbitt (13.0 ppg) and� Kapili Amamalin (12.3 ppg), but 5'8 post Nayla Long also chips in nearly 11.8 points per contest.

Ashley Savusa has been key for Kaimuki all season, averaging 16.1 points per game, good for second best in the state. Teammate Keana Paez does most of her damage in the post, contributing nearly 10 points per outing.


Roosevelt-Waiakea at Moanalua (5 p.m.)


The Rough Riders rely on production from leading scorer Kira Arruda (9.4 ppg), but Taitana Mariano's return from injury just in time for the playoffs has been a boon. Just a freshman, Mariano has posted double-digit scoring in 3-of-4 playoff games.

Waiakea led at halftime in the BIIF championship game, but was overpowered in the second-half by Konawaena, the top-seed in the state tournament, by a 47-30 count.


Kaiser-Maui at McKinley (5 p.m.)

A senior-laden Cougars squad has a potent 1-2 punch in guard Chandler Arce (11.6 ppg), an outside threat who has hit 26 threes this season, and post Darcey Goulsby (9.7 ppg), a strong rebounder and inside presence.

Maui comes into the tournament off a loss to Lahainaluna in the MIL title game.


Kahuku-Kamehameha at McKinley (7 p.m.)

Kahuku post Leighlani Paselio has scored in double figures in every game this season except for one (6 points against Kaimuki on Jan. 7), and averages 15.7 per contest, good for third in the state.

The Warriors come into the tournament off of a thrilling win over Punahou last Friday, and are led by Lilia Maio (10.5 ppg) and Alohi Robins-Hardy (8.9).

Both games at McKinley will be televised live on OC16.