Diamond Head Classic gears up to possibly host Obama

Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic officials are preparing for the possibility of President Barack Obama attending at least one game of the holiday tournament.

Obama’s brother-in-law, Craig Robinson, coaches Oregon State, one of the eight teams in the tournament slated for Dec. 22, 23 and 25 at the Stan Sheriff Center.

The Beavers open against Akron at 2:30 p.m. on the 22nd, on the opposite side of the bracket from host Hawaii.

Oregon State’s appearance in the early time slot is believed to have been bracketed in part for the possibility of Obama’s attendance.

"He went to the game earlier (this season) to watch Oregon State play Maryland, and in the past," DHC executive director David Matlin said. "You know, it’s possible but we really don’t have any additional information at this time."