HONOLULU — Hawaii basketball coach Eran Ganot is taking a medical leave of absence.
The university said Wednesday in a statement that Ganot says he plans to return to the program but needs to address his health issues. The statement did not give details about his health.
“Although it pains me to leave the team, there are certain health issues that I need to address,” Ganot said in the release. “I have a plan and I will return. I appreciate my coaches, players and the administration and I look forward to returning to the court as soon as possible.”
Athletics Director David Matlin added: “Our main concern is with Eran’s health. We’re here to support him and we look forward to his return. Nobody loves this program more than Eran. Eran has created a strong culture with his staff and we both have full confidence in the ability of Chris, John (Montgomery), Jabari (Trotter) and Jesse (Nakanishi) to lead the team.”
Chris Gerlufsen will serve as acting head coach in Ganot’s absence. Ganot is in his fifth year as the Rainbow Warriors head coach. The team has had winning seasons in all but one under Ganot, making it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2016.
Hawaii will open the season Friday against Florida A&M at the Rainbow Classic.