The University of Hawaii’ men’s basketball team will start fresh this season with a new name for its home venue.
What was formerly known as SimpliFi Arena at the Stan Sheriff Center is now Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center, after an announcement by venue sponsor Bank of Hawai’i.
“We’re humbled and honored to enter this new chapter with a name that feels both familiar and fresh,” Bank of Hawai‘i Chairman and CEO Peter Ho said in a statement. “Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center is a tribute to the shared history and enduring partnership between Bankoh and UH — institutions built on trust, connection and community spirit. We’re proud to stand alongside the University of Hawai‘i as we carry that spirit forward, together.”
The new name is part of Bank of Hawaii’s 10-year, $5 million partnership with UH Athletics which began in 2020.
“Bank of Hawai‘i has been a loyal supporter and sponsor of UH Athletics throughout the years,” Athletics Director Matt Elliott said. “Their commitment has had a direct impact on the success of our teams and benefited our student-athletes in many different ways. We share in their excitement with this rebrand of Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center. This iconic facility is a place where UH excels and memories are made. We’re thrilled that Bank of Hawai‘i’s name will be a part of our shared future and are so grateful for their support of OUR TEAM. HAWAI‘I’S TEAM.”
The Bank of Hawai’i official statement added that “while SimpliFi Arena at Stan Sheriff Center highlighted the bank’s digital evolution, the shift to ‘Bankoh Arena’ brings the focus back to the bank’s deep community ties as well as its role as a trusted, familiar institution.”