Isaac Johnson to Enter Transfer Portal!

Isaac “Big Fish” Johnson

After one season at UH, Isaac “Big Fish” Johnson has announced he will enter the transfer portal, but he will need a waiver to be eligible for the ‘26-27 season.

Another bombshell has been dropped on the University of Hawaiʻi Men’s Basketball team this off-season!

On Tuesday, April 14, Isaac Johnson announced on social media that he will enter the transfer portal.

Johnson, who got married this past summer in the islands, was a vital piece to the front court and a quality 3-point shooter this past season! He went for a whopping 25 points against Manhattan in the Rainbow Classic semifinal and guided UH to some critical victories, including a home win over UC Irvine on Jan. 10.

Johnson has exhausted his eligibility, so he will need a waiver to be eligible for the 2026-27 season. He has not announced a new home as of yet.

Johnson joins Hunter Carter, Isaac Finlinson, Aaron Hunkin-Claytor, and A.J. Economou in the portal.

My reaction: I did NOT see this coming! Johnson really proved to be a fan favorite with his “Big Fish” chomping clap during his introductions and during gameplay! Considering he’ll need a waiver for next season, I’d consider this a double-edged sword, just like the graduate transfers if they’re granted an additional season. I could speculate all I want, but maybe his new wife planned to transfer out of Chaminade, and Isaac had to do the same thing, or this could be NIL-related. I wish them well in their future endeavors, and while a change of heart does not seem likely, thanks for the memories, “Big Fish!” Once a Rainbow Warrior, ALWAYS a Rainbow Warrior!