After a triumphant 41-year run in the islands, the Hawaii Collegiate Summer Basketball League is getting an “HD” upgrade as the league is being rebranded and operated as the Hawaii Development League which tips off later this month.
Co-founded by former ‘Iolani standouts Derrick Low and Kyle Pape, the HD League will run over three weeks in Honolulu featuring current and former professional, collegiate, and prep players created for the specific purpose of development in a competitive and high-level atmosphere.
“Growing up I used to go and watch the summer league at Kaimuki all the time. Always aspired to one day try and play in it because it was always filled with really good players, really good talent and I always found that playing against that kind of talent gets you better as a player. It forces your game to adapt.” Low told KHON2 Sports Director Rob DeMello.
Six men’s teams and four women’s teams will go through a season schedule and playoffs starting June 26th culminating with league title games on July 19th.
According to league director, former Washington State and current european basketball guard Derrick Low, expect the best of the best from Hawaii alongside current and former professionals from around the world.
“That was my ultimate vision. To kind of just use my contacts, my connections, all the friends that I made from all around. I envision trying to bring professional players, friends that I met overseas. I have friends that play in the NBA, I’d love to get them down here and play. I’m just trying to give Hawaii an up close and personal look at different kinds of players, you know, just kind of bring that excitement back” said Low.
After a hiatus from summer participation, University of Hawaii players may return to take part in the HD League, an official announcement regarding the Rainbow Warriors presence is expected in the coming week or two.
The first ever HD League draft is scheduled for June 22nd with league games starting four days later.
For more information on the HD League CLICK HERE
