ESPN Events announced that the Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic will not take place during the 2025-26 season. The tournament, a fixture of UH men’s basketball since 2009, has faced challenges with scheduling and the rise of NIL-backed events. ESPN referred to the cancellation as a “pause,” with no timeline for its return.
The event has struggled in recent years to secure marquee teams due to shifting college basketball dynamics. The rise of NIL tournaments, like the Players Era Festival, has intensified competition for top teams, further impacting traditional events like the Diamond Head Classic.
While no guarantees have been made for the tournament’s return in 2026-27, organizers are still exploring future opportunities.
