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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Thursday, November 27, 2008

Flexibility on court key to Rainbow Warriors' success

By Dayton Morinaga
Advertiser Staff Writer

Hawaii news photo - The Honolulu Advertiser

Bill Amis

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Versatility will apparently be a key to the success of the University of Hawai'i men's basketball team.

The ability of several Rainbow Warriors to play multiple roles has led to two consecutive victories.

"It's about using personnel where we can be most effective," Hawai'i head coach Bob Nash said. "We're fortunate enough to have guys who are willing and able to play different positions."

One example is Bill Amis, who was strictly a low-post player last season. In Monday's 60-59 victory over Iowa State, he not only hit the game-winning free throws, he played both power forward and small forward.

"I actually worked a lot on my shooting in the off-season," said Amis, a 6-foot-9 junior. "We have a lot of flexibility this year, so I think you'll see a bunch of guys moving around."

Amis scored most of his team-high 17 points near the basket, but also hit a 3-pointer during a second-half rally.

"Bill improved his shooting range, and so he can step out and hit that shot now," Nash said. "We're comfortable with him in the post or on the wing."

Roderick Flemings also played various positions — shooting guard, small forward and power forward. When Amis moved out to the wing in the second half of Monday's game, Flemings moved in to the low post.

"I don't mind going against the big guys," said Flemings, a 6-7 junior. "That's going to make us hard to guard. We can throw so many different looks at the opponent."

Adhar Mayen, Lasha Parghalava and Kareem Nitoto have also played multiple positions.

Hawai'i, which is 2-2, will play Prairie View A&M on Monday at the Stan Sheriff Center.

It will be the third of five consecutive Monday night games for the 'Bows. Hawai'i is already 2-0 in Monday night games.

The 'Bows are also scheduled to play at Illinois on Dec. 8, followed by home games against Eastern Washington on Dec. 13 (a Saturday) and then Chicago State on Dec. 15 (a Monday).

"We're trying to compete with Monday Night Football," Nash joked. "It's a tough sell, but with (women's) volleyball and other things going on, it's tough to get dates in our arena at this time of year."

Reach Dayton Morinaga at dmorinaga@honoluluadvertiser.com.