IRVINE, Calif.-- UC Irvine men's basketball signs guard Tamatoa "Tama" Isaac for the 2025-26 season.
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Isaac hails from Christchurch, New Zealand and has been an impactful player in the New Zealand national team system. The 6-foot-2 point guard recently made his Senior National Team debut at the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup Men's Qualifiers in February.
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"Tama Isaac is an extremely talented young player who has proved himself already in international competition and against older players," head coach
Russell Turner stated. "He is highly competitive and has advanced defensive instincts that make him a great fit for us as a developing point guard who makes his team's win and his teammates better."
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During the 2024 FIBA U18 Asia Cup, Isaac averaged 17.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game which ranked third, 17th, and first, respectively among all participants. The Junior Tall Blacks claimed the silver medal as Isaac posted five 16 or more-point performances over the six contests. Additionally, he won the silver medal with the U17 National Team at the FIBA U17 Oceania Championship.
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Currently, Isaac plays on the NBL's Canterbury Rams with his older brother Kaia and is posting 14 points, five assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game.
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Isaac joins the Anteater program that is coming of their first appearance in the NIT championship game and a record-setting 32 wins.
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