WAILUKU, Maui—The 22nd ILWU Men’s Basketball Tournament was held on December 5 and 6, 2003 at the Wailuku Gym. Three teams participated in the tournament, which was sponsored by the ILWU’s Maui Division and run by division sports coordinator Delbert DeRego and ILWU members Douglas and Victoria Cabading, who are both from Unit 2306 - Maui Pineapple Co. (cannery). Also present to assist were Hawaii Division sports coordinators Roy Jardine and Richard Kaniho, and Oahu sports coordinator Brian Tanaka.

This tournament was unusual in that it ran for two days; in recent years the ILWU basketball tournament has been held on a single Saturday. The first game was played on Friday night between “Mauna Lani” from the Big Island and “Maui One.” The game was a blowout, with the Hawaii team wildly outscoring Maui and taking the game 86 to 24.

The next morning, Oahu’s team—made up mainly of ILWU members from Love’s Bakery and the pineapple industry—challenged Maui and defeated them by final score of 63 to 31.

A three point contest held after the first game of the morning allowed Oahu a breather before taking on the Big Island. Oahu Business Agent Tanaka ran the contest, which was won in a “sudden death” round by Curtis Kuge.

Championship 
In the third and final game of the tournament, Mauna Lani faced off against Oahu. At half time Hawaii led 20-15; strong defense on both sides kept the score low. Although Oahu showed its shooting skill, sinking at least three 3-point baskets in the second half, Mauna Lani’s fast-breaking game prevailed and they won the championship by a score of 58 to 39.

High scorers were Alan Coito, Reeve Cazimero and Keoni Emeliano (Hawaii); Kalama Marfil and Oscar Cabal (Oahu); and Wendell Cullen (Maui).

After the games, team members and supporters retired to the ILWU Wailuku Union Hall for a delicious catered lunch and the presentation of awards.

“Everyone had a good time,” said DeRego. “Fellowship is an important part of being a union member in the ILWU.”