News - University of Houston Secures Division II Star Guard Jaden Matingou

The University of Hawaii's men's basketball program has secured a significant addition with the signing of Jaden Matingou, an outstanding point guard from Point Loma Nazarene University. Matingou, celebrated for his agility and court vision, is poised to bring his dynamic skills to the Rainbow Warriors starting this June. This strategic move aligns with UH's continuous efforts to strengthen their roster with formidable talent. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 175 pounds, Matingou is recognized not only for his physical attributes but also for his impressive performance statistics. He led the PacWest in assists per game, boasting an exceptional assists-to-turnover ratio of plus-1.5. His offensive prowess was evident with an average of 11.9 points per game and an impressive shooting accuracy of 49.2%, including a 36.4% success rate from beyond the arc. Notably, Matingou delivered a remarkable 27-point performance against Hawaii Pacific University earlier this year. His contributions were pivotal to Point Loma's successful season, which culminated in winning both the PacWest's regular-season and tournament titles, marking the Sea Lions' fourth consecutive appearance in the West Region finals. These successes highlight Matingou’s vital role in the team's achievements. Reflecting on his decision to join UH, Matingou emphasized his positive relationship with the coaching staff and deep appreciation for the university's history of success and culturally rich environment. "They've fostered an atmosphere that is both competitive and familial," Matingou remarked. He noted that personal connections, like UH assistant coach Rob Jones and mentor James Nunnally, significantly influenced his decision. These factors underscored the program's alignment with his aspirations and values. Despite offers from other Division 1 schools like Oregon State and Colorado State, the unique combination of opportunity, tradition, and camaraderie at Hawaii was most appealing to Jaden. His basketball journey, marked by perseverance and adaptation—including a growth spurt and refined athletic skills during high school—sets a promising stage for his contributions to the Rainbow Warriors. Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou, affectionately nicknamed by his family for his quick movements on the court, is enthusiastic and ready to embrace this next chapter with the University of Hawaii, aiming to extend their legacy of success and embody the spirit of ohana both on and off the court.