Imani Perez: The ‘Glue’ Holding Hawaii Women’s Basketball Together

HONOLULU — As the Hawaii Rainbow Wahine basketball team prepares for its final regular season games in the Big West Conference, senior forward Imani Perez stands out as a pivotal force behind their impressive turnaround. After a challenging 0-5 start in conference play, the Wahine have surged, winning 11 of their last 12 games, largely thanks to Perez’s leadership and versatility.

From Doubts to Dominance

Perez, a Denver, Colorado native, initially struggled with her passion for basketball before arriving at Hawaii. “Before college, I had some struggles with basketball, just mentally,” Perez said. “So coming here was a bit of a challenge for me, just wanting to actually play.” Her experience at the NCAA Tournament, particularly playing against LSU, proved to be a turning point, rekindling her love for the game.

A Key Retention for the Rainbow Wahine

Despite attracting attention from other schools, Perez chose to remain at Hawaii, a decision lauded by head coach Laura Beeman. “She really is family,” Perez said of Beeman. “She makes things really special, and she does so much for me and my family now, and she’s so encouraging, very supportive, and she’s definitely helped me love playing basketball again.” Beeman has even allowed Perez to return home at midseason for personal reasons, demonstrating a level of support rare in collegiate athletics.

Statistical Impact and Defensive Prowess

Perez is currently averaging 7.7 points per game, along with a career-best 5.9 rebounds and 1.6 blocked shots. Hawaii News Now reports she is ranked 34th nationally in blocked shots. A two-time Big West All-Defensive Teamer, Perez is on track to potentially earn her third such honor. She currently has 121 career blocks, needing just four more to move into sixth place in UH history. Her shooting has also improved, converting 29 of 65 three-point attempts for a .446 percentage, which would rank fourth in a single UH season.

The ‘Glue Player’

Coach Beeman describes Perez as “our glue player,” emphasizing her willingness to do whatever is needed for the team’s success. Spectrum News Hawaii highlights her ability to seamlessly adapt to different roles, even playing all 40 minutes in a narrow loss to UC Irvine on January 10th, a game that marked a turning point for the team. “Whatever they need is what I’m going to do, and in that game, that’s what we needed as a team,” Perez explained.

Looking Ahead

The Rainbow Wahine (17-10, 11-6 Big West) will honor Perez and fellow seniors Saniyah Neverson and Izzy Forsyth on Saturday against Cal State Fullerton (16-11, 12-5). UH is aiming for a top-four seed and a bye in the Big West tournament. Perez has indicated she may choose to remain in Hawaii after graduation, considering the state her “home.”