California Irvine Athletics

#13 Nohe'alani Stores
Year: Freshman
Height: 6-2
Position: Forward
Hometown: East Palo Alto, Calif.
High School: Mater Dei HS
Major: Film & Media Studies
 
Nohe'alani Stores graduated from Mater Dei High School where she was a 2025 McDonald's All-American Game nominee. Nohe'alani started her prep career at Sequoia High School and Milipitas HIgh School in the Bay Area. She also played for the Cal Stars and Cal Swish club teams.




When and how did you get started playing basketball?
I started playing basketball ever since I was four. My mom played at the University of Arizona and my dad played at Idaho, so it's always been in our family. I started playing at the YMCA then just started club after that.
 
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
I would definitely say my mom. She had the same goals as me when she was younger, so she knows how to coach and mentor me.
 
What has been your favorite basketball memory so far?
I would say my favorite basketball memory is playing EYBL. Traveling and getting the experience to play against elite players was the most fun for me.
 
What has been the biggest transition for you going from high school to collegiate basketball?
I would say the margin for error is much smaller, and the intensity is much higher. But, coming from the high school I went to, it kind of prepared me for that.
 
Where did you grow up and what would you say is the best thing about your hometown?
I grew up in East Palo Alto in Northern California. I would say the best part about living there and growing up there is the diversity.
 
What do you enjoy doing when you have some down time?
When I have down time, I'm always listening to music. I also like going outdoors and hiking or going to lakes.
 
Why UC Irvine?
I chose UC Irvine because when I came on my visit I felt very welcome. I've known Coach Cece and Coach T since I was in seventh grade so building that relationship with them helped, and I felt like I could see myself being a big part of the team.