The Hawaii football team completed its 2013 recruiting class with a commitment from a highly sought prospect from Virginia Beach, Va.
Kwamane Bowens, a receiver/cornerback from Salem High, told the Star-Advertiser he will accept a scholarship offer from the Warriors.
Bowens completed his Hawaii recruiting trip on Sunday morning. He said he will sign the letter of intent this week.
"Yeah, I’m a Warrior," Bowens said. "Hawaii is everything. It’s the right place for me."
Bowens is 6 feet 1 and 172 pounds. He is capable of running 40 yards in 4.5 seconds.
Bowens said he will play defensive back for the Warriors.
The Virginia Pilot newspaper rated Bowens as the state’s fifth-best prospect.
Bowens received offers from Boston College, East Carolina, Houston, Illinois, Mississippi, Mississippi State, Nebraska, North Carolina State, Ohio State, Pittsburgh, South Carolina, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech and West Virginia.
But Bowens did not sign with anyone on Feb. 6, the first day of the NCAA signing period.
"I had some grade situation," Bowens said. "It’s better now."
After that, the Warriors entered the derby.
"They started coming after me," Bowens said of the UH coaches."They really worked hard. I give it to them. They gave me the best opportunity."
Bowens said he wanted to wait until his UH visit before finalizing a decision.
Bowens said he was introduced to surfing, toured the school, met with academic counselors and enjoyed several meals.
"I didn’t have a favorite (activity)," Bowens said. "I loved them all."
On Sunday morning, Bowens said he finalized his decision.
"College is not just about going somewhere," Bowens said. "I thought about how I wanted to live my life and explore the world. Hawaii is the best opportunity. I like the school. I like the players. I like the coaches. They believe in me. It’s Hawaii."
Bowens’ commitment completes a frenetic recruiting finish. Over the weekend, Kealakehe High defensive lineman David Fangupo signed a letter of intent and Riverside College punter Ruben Guzman made an oral commitment.