While I was researching today’s column reviewing 2010 and previewing 2011 in Hawaii sports, I came across a column I wrote about Red Rocha after his death at 86 in February.

Rocha definitely should have been mentioned in Tuesday’s column about the unusually high number of Hawaii sports figures who died in 2010.

He is the only locally born-and-raised Hawaii basketball player to play in the NBA All-Star game. And, as more remember, he coached the most storied team in the history of University of Hawaii basketball.

Hawaii slot receiver Kealoha Pilares signed today with agent Wynn Silberman of the California-based Morgan Advisory Group.

Silberman also represents former UH players Jake Ingram and Blaze Soares.

Silberman said scouts have told him Pilares might be selected in the NFL Draft.

“Obviously we don’t like what happened with his knee (a PCL sprain incurred in the Hawaii Bowl),” Silberman said. “But Kealoha has what we call staying power. He is attractive to teams and can make a roster because of his versatility. In addition to being a receiver either outside or in the the slot he can return kicks and cover kicks.”

Pilares plans to rehab his knee with noted isle sports physical therapist Pat Ariki and then train at the Triple Threat facility in Arizona which includes Olympic decathlete Dan O’Brien on its staff, Silberman said.

The following contribution and starting point for discussion is from reader Gary Beck:

Your article today had some truth that I think should be expanded.  Specifically, the quote, “They jumped all our routes” clearly shows a huge gap in preparation between the two teams, as does the obvious similarity between the first two picks.  In other words, the Bows were clearly out-coached because game plans are based on research done by the coaching staff, as are the preparatory practices.  Very little can usually be blamed on the players except things like fumbles and wounded duck passes.

The coach at my school has famously said, “Take care of the little things and the big things will take care of themselves” and therein lies the main problem with UH football.

I’m headed out the door to the stadium. Hopefully I’ll have time to make a stop for the last two Christmas gifts.

If you’re at the game today, check out the booth for Davone Bess’ All-Star Luau, a benefit for the American Cancer Society. It will be January 27, 2011 at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel.

Here at the Stan Sheriff Center for the Diamond Head Classic first round. At least 9,000 here for Hawaii and Florida State. Seminoles just tied it at 8. See comments for updates.

Klay Thompson scored 28 to lead Washington State past Mississippi State 83-57 in the morning game. Baylor is destroying San Diego 54-25 early in the second half; this one was over before it started.

Will update time-to-time here and on Facebook and Twitter. And more when Hawaii plays Florida State tonight.

The date, time and place are set for the Davone Bess All-Star Luau, a benefit for the American Cancer Society.

It will be Jan. 27, 2011 … 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Queen Kapiolani Hotel. Tickets start at $75.

This promises to be a great event, similar to the benefit hosted by Colt Brennan two years ago.

For more information, call 432-9163 and keep an eye on www.DaBessCure4Cancer.com for more details.