HONOLULU -- The University of Hawaii on Saturday introduced Gib Arnold as the school's 19th men's basketball head coach.

Athletics Director Jim Donovan made the announcement.

"I charged the committee with helping me find someone who was ‘hungry,’ had extensive recruiting experience and a plan specific for UH. Also someone with a clear vision for the future of our basketball program and could fit into Hawaii's unique culture. I believe this process worked quickly and effectively, and that’s why Gib is here with us today," Donovan said.

Arnold grew up for several years in the islands. He graduated from Punahou School and was an all-state basketball guard.

"My family and I are so excited to be returning back to Hawaii," Arnold said. "I'm grateful for this opportunity to coach here and am looking forward to rejuvenating this program and making the people of Hawaii proud."

Arnold becomes the program’s 19th head coach. In recent years, the 41-year-old has been tabbed by numerous outlets as one of the nation’s top assistants and recruiters and has served for schools in the Pac-10, Southeastern Conference and West Coast Conference. He also boasts head coaching experience having guided junior college power College of Southern Idaho for two seasons.

“My family and I are so excited to be returning back to Hawaii,” Arnold said. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to coach here and am looking forward to rejuvenating this program and making the people of Hawaii proud.”

Arnold's father, Frank, was the head basketball coach for two seasons at UH from 1985-1987.

Arnold spent the last five years as an assistant at USC. He is considered to be one of the nation's top recruiters.

Arnold would take over for Bob Nash who was fired earlier this month after three seasons of leading the Rainbow Warriors.

Arnold and his wife, Lisa, have five children: Analise, Ashton, Ally, Addison and Ace.

Arnold's Coaching Career:
2005-2010 USC; assistant coach
2003-2005 College of Southern Idaho; head coach
1999-2003 Pepperdine; assistant coach
1998-1999 Vanderbilt; assistant coach
1996-1998 Loyola Marymount; assistant coach
1995-1996 Utah Valley State assistant coach
1994-1995 Provo High School; assistant coach