"Built for Big Moments: Flash, Fire, and Fierce Intent"

Tui Tukimaka

@Tukimaka0

IG: @Tukimaka.0

5’11”, 155lbs | Class of 2027

Mililani HS, HI

 Tui attacks the game in multiple ways.   He is electric with the ball and dynamic in transition, he injects fire into every possession. As a crafty three-level scorer with an explosive first step, Tui breaks defenders down with a smooth handle and then punishes them with his quick release or timely playmaking. He plays with a fierce motor, the kind that sparks energy in his team and sets the tone from tip-off. What makes him lethal isn’t just his ability to score but his decision-making, his IQ, and his constant movement. Tui is versatile on both ends of the floor, flashing underrated defensive instincts and an eagerness to impact the game beyond the stat sheet. 

This past season, Tui averaged 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals per game while shooting 85.7% from the free-throw line, numbers that speak to consistency and control. But his biggest improvement was confidence. After limited minutes at his previous school, he found a new home and reignited his passion, locking in and falling in love with the grind again. That fire fueled his all-around improvement and led to a season filled with purpose. As he gears up for a new year where he’ll be the guy, his offseason goals are crystal clear: become a stronger leader, elevate his off-the-dribble shooting, and turn pressure into production. He’s hungry to grow, especially in areas like off-ball defense and rebounding, knowing that being elite at the little things will separate him from the pack. What drives Tui the most is winning. He feeds off knowing his preparation translates into victories for his team, and that success is built on effort, sacrifice, and trust.

This AAU season, Tui will play  with WE RISE ELITE 16U on the Adidas Circuit, with major stops in Orange County, South Carolina, and Ladera Ranch. The spotlight is coming, and Tui’s ready for it. He’s focused on pushing his squad, being vocal, and chasing a strong run through live periods. His vision is to  lead his team, light up the scoreboard, and make his name known across the OIA and the state of Hawai’i. His other goal is to be the top scorer in the OIA and one of the most respected players in the islands as an explosive weapon teams have to account for every night.

Off the court, Tui enjoys spending time with family, reflecting on his faith, or just enjoying life beyond basketball, he stays grounded. What fuels his fire is deeper than stats or highlights. It’s pride in his roots. It’s knowing he’s playing for something bigger than himself, his family, his supporters, and everyone who’s believed in his path. When facing adversity Tui resets, trusts his work, and leans on the fundamentals. The best advice he ever received is "Always be a student of the game and never settle, never coast". That mindset is now stitched into everything he does.

I assess that Tui is a fluid, high-IQ guard who plays with poise, energy, and a natural scoring instinct. His ability to create off the dribble, make smart reads, and defend with urgency makes him a tough matchup. With added strength and continued growth as a leader, he has the tools to become a standout backcourt presence at the next level.

College programs looking for a lead guard who thrives in chaos, makes timely plays, and brings both energy and control will find value in Tui. He changes pace well, plays with heart, and understands the game far beyond his years. His adaptability, work ethic, and fire give him the ability to impact winning and elevate a program's culture on and off the court.

Expect a breakout stretch through the AAU live period, where Tui will have the chance to show scouts that his game is built for big stages. With continued growth in leadership and physicality, his potential is high. He’s not just coming for a spot, the goal is to make noise. Stay tuned.