There are several connections for Arizona players and coaches with Hawaii, whom the Wildcats host in the season opener on Saturday. Offensive lineman Ka'ena Decambra transferred to Arizona from Hawaii during the 2025 offseason and linebacker Riley Wilson began his career with the Rainbow Warriors. Arizona defensive backs Gavin Hunter and Nela Teliauli and offensive lineman Javian Goo, and defensive lineman Julian Savaiinae played high school football in Hawaii. Arizona head coach Brent Brennan was a graduate assistant at Hawaii and Wildcats' defensive line coach Joe Salave'a has a long history recruiting Hawaiian players. The Arizona and Hawaii football programs have been connected since at least 1987 when Dick Tomey was hired by the Wildcats.