Not so long ago, Waiakea was often second best, a good place to be as Konawaena continues its girls basketball dynasty.
However, Hilo has recently filled that role, tagging along with the Wildcats to the HHSAA Division I state tournament as the BIIF runner-up the last three years.
It’s very, very unlikely anyone will unseat Kona, the defending seven-time BIIF champion, at the height of its power with seniors Chanelle Molina and Ihi Victor leading the charge for a second consecutive state title.
With Honokaa, the two-time state Division II champion, jumping up to Division I, there’s now more competition, including Keaau and Kealakehe, in the musical chairs race for the league’s second spot to the state tournament.