A trio of seniors have been chosen to lead the University of Hawai'i men's basketball team this season.

Matt Gibson, Riley Luettgerodt and Bobby Nash were selected team captains in a vote by the team yesterday.

"They were elected by their peers," Hawai'i head coach Bob Nash said. "The voting was a fair process, and so they will lead."

Their first test comes tomorrow when the Rainbow Warriors host San Diego in the 2007-08 season opener at the Stan Sheriff Center.

"Any time you're recognized by your peers in anything it's a great honor," Bobby Nash said. "It's a big responsibility. You have 14 guys you have to worry about besides yourself."

Gibson and Bobby Nash are returning starters from last season's 18-13 team.

Bobby Nash, who averaged 11.2 points and 4.0 rebounds per game last season, is in his fifth season with the program. Gibson, who averaged 10.2 points and 4.5 rebounds per game last season, is in his fourth season with the 'Bows.

"Obviously, those guys have lots of leadership experience," Bob Nash said.

Luettgerodt, who is in his second season with the program, was a key reserve last season.

"I guess my teammates respect me, so that makes it a nice honor," Luettgerodt said. "Bobby and Matt have been here a long time, and this is only my second year, so it's surprising to me."

The three seniors bring three different styles of leadership.

Gibson is a fiery competitor. Bobby Nash is both cerebral and vocal. Luettgerodt is a quiet, tireless worker.

"As seniors, we have only three or four months left to play college basketball, hopefully longer," Bobby Nash said. "But the urgency starts now. I'll do whatever it takes to get the point across to the other guys."

Bob Nash, the coach, said the captains will serve as a conduit between the players and coaches.

"If there's any issues in the locker room that need to be addressed, then those are the guys that get it first," Bob Nash said. "If there's problems, they can go to the captains, and the captains will bring it to the coaches."

In any case, all three captains are expected to be in the starting lineup tomorrow.

Gibson had to sit out the final hour of yesterday's practice with an ice pack on his knee, but he is expected to be ready tomorrow.

"He bumped his knee. He'll be ready," Bob Nash said. "You have to shoot that guy for him not to play."

Gibson is expected to start at point guard, Luettgerodt at shooting guard, and Bobby Nash at either small forward or power forward.

The other starting spots will be filled by Jared Dillinger, P.J. Owsley or Stephen Verwers.

"Every day, we're getting a little better," Bob Nash said. "We still have to sharpen up a few things, and we have only one day left to get ready. We have no choice but to be ready."

Reach Dayton Morinaga at dmorinaga@honoluluadvertiser.com.