UH basketball lands play-making guard

Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou joins Rainbow Warriors from Division II powerhouse

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:49pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movement and raw athleticism of a basketball player driving to the hoop, conceptually representing the energetic playstyle of new UH recruit Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou.The addition of high-flying point guard Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou brings an infusion of playmaking energy and championship pedigree to the University of Hawaii basketball program.Honolulu Today

The University of Hawaii men's basketball team has landed a dynamic playmaker in Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou, a point guard from NCAA Division II program Point Loma Nazarene University. Matingou, who was named to the All-Pac West first team last season, has agreed to a commitment contract and will join the Rainbow Warriors in June with two years of eligibility remaining.

Why it matters

Matingou's addition is a significant boost for the UH basketball program, which is looking to build on its winning tradition. As a highly skilled, pass-first point guard, Matingou should provide an immediate impact and help lead the Rainbow Warriors to success in the coming seasons.

The details

Matingou, who is 6-foot-3 and 175 pounds with a 41.5-inch vertical leap, led the Pac West in assists per game (4.3) last season while shooting 49.2% from the field and 36.4% from 3-point range. He helped guide Point Loma Nazarene to the Pac West regular season and tournament titles, as well as a berth in the West Region finals for the fourth consecutive year.

  • Matingou will join the UH basketball team in June 2026.
  • Last season, Matingou was named to the All-Pac West first team.

The players

Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou

A 6-foot-3, 175-pound point guard who was an All-Pac West first team selection last season at NCAA Division II program Point Loma Nazarene University.

Rob Jones

An assistant coach for the University of Hawaii men's basketball team who helped recruit Matingou to the program.

James Nunnally

A professional basketball player who Matingou considers a mentor and who is friends with UH assistant coach Rob Jones, helping facilitate Matingou's connection to the Rainbow Warriors.

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What they’re saying

“My decision was based on my relationship with the coaching staff. Since they've been recruiting me, they showed they care about me as a person and a player. I also like the winning tradition and culture there. I loved everything they talked about, how it's a real family and the ohana there. I'm excited and blessed to be a part of it.”

— Jaden 'Shloop' Matingou, Incoming UH basketball player

What’s next

Matingou will join the UH basketball team in June 2026 and have two years of eligibility remaining with the Rainbow Warriors.

The takeaway

Matingou's addition to the UH basketball program is a significant coup, as the highly skilled point guard brings playmaking ability, scoring prowess, and championship pedigree from his time at the Division II level. His commitment to the Rainbow Warriors' winning culture and 'ohana' mentality should make him a valuable leader and contributor as UH looks to build on its recent success.