ALASKA SPORTS TALK
Isaiah and Brad kick things off with big news out of UAA—breaking down the hiring of Cameron Turner as the new men’s basketball coach and what it means for the future of the program. They also touch on the departure of hockey head coach Nathan Shazby, setting the stage for a new era in Seawolf Hockey. Then it’s all Wolverines. Head coach Mike Aikens and captain Cole Frawner join the show for an in-depth conversation you won’t want to miss. Cole shares what it truly means to lead—diving into his evolution from assistant captain to the voice of the locker room, and how respect, accountability, and even a little “theater” play into great leadership. The conversation gets real as they unpack a turning point in January after a tough sweep that forced a leadership reset—and ultimately sparked a turnaround. Coach Aikens gives high praise to the leadership group, while also keeping it honest about recent losses and the fine details that separate wins from missed opportunities. You’ll also hear what makes this Wolverines team special: A locker room that stays loose (shoutout to the team’s pranksters 👀), A relentless mindset through the grind of a 9-month season, And the unmatched support of billet families and a fanbase showing up 2,500–4,000 strong, As playoffs approach, the focus sharpens. The guys break down what it takes to win in postseason hockey—buying into roles, trusting the system, and embracing the grind. There’s confidence, there’s hunger, and there’s a belief this team is built for the moment. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/uUb2gRJQuWc
AST RECENT EPISODES
A podcast all about Alaska Sports! We bring insight, knowledge, with an interesting and fun perspective about all the happenings in high school and college sports in Alaska!
Photos on AlaskaSportsTalk.com provided by Stephanie Goon (@goongallery96), Todd Ramoth and the University of Alaska Anchorage
SEASON 3, EPISODE 36
This week on AST, Keaton, Brad, and Isaiah sit down with newly crowned 3A State Champion Mt. Edgecumbe head coach Marshall Vest, and trust us—this one delivers from start to finish. Fresh off cutting down the nets, Coach Vest takes us inside the emotional rollercoaster of Mount Edgecombe’s first-ever state title. From gritty team depth to clutch performances, this wasn’t about one star—it was about a squad that refused to blink. We break down the chess match against Alex Frewen and Barrow, including the bold decision not to double one of the state’s best players—and how that gamble paid off. Coach Vest also shares how his pro playing background shapes his coaching style, why giving players the “green light” builds confidence, and what it meant to bring a championship back to a tight-knit boarding school community with alumni spread all across Alaska. Big C Relays Buzz – From Swedish relays to statewide competition, we recap one of Alaska’s most unique track meets! Anchorage Wolverines have Clinched a Playoff Berth and are HOT! A 9-0-1 run heading into this weekend games versus Kenai Brown Bears. Friday @ Kenai, then Saturday and Sunday at the Sullivan Arena to finish the regular season! Wolverines will finish 2nd, 3rd, or 4th! Win this weekend and 2nd place is within reach! Spring Sports Are HERE – Baseball and softball are ramping up, with early-season action heading to Ketchikan. Coldest March Since 1956?! – Isaiah drops a wild weather stat that every Alaskan can feel right now. UAA Coaching News Tease – A big announcement is coming March 31… and yeah, you’re gonna want to tune in for that. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/Twc3JyuqYUE
SEASON 3, EPISODE 35
Brad, Isaiah, and Keaton kick things off on the hardwood with Grace Christian Boys Head Coach Jason Boerger breaking down a tough battle against South and what it took to survive a grueling stretch of games. From managing energy with smart routines to watching players like Blake and Chris Jones take major leaps, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how teams evolve when it matters most. Jason also reflects on a season that wasn’t always smooth—missed camps, injuries, and adversity—but ultimately forged a tighter, smarter group ready for the big stage. On the girls’ side, Mountain City Girls Head Coach Lonnie Ridgeway brings championship energy after leading Mountain City Christian to a 4A state title. He dives into a defense-first mindset, tough practices, and what it meant to coach his daughter Brooklyn—who dropped 22 in the title game. Plus, a little friendly rivalry storytelling (including a throwback to a 2006 state title clash) keeps things fun. We also relive one of the wildest games of the year—a triple-overtime thriller between Mt. Edgecombe and Barrow that ended 98-97. Instant classic. Add in standout performances from players like Caden Herman and rising star Alex Truin, and the future of Alaska hoops is looking bright. And of course, we close on the ice with the Anchorage Wolverines playoff race heating up. Sitting in a tight three-way tie for third with 66 points, every game matters down the stretch—especially big matchups against Wisconsin and Kenai. It’s crunch time, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/IJ34F74snag
SEASON 3, EPISODE 34
Keaton, Brad, and Isaiah are joined by Wasilla Girls Head Coach Jeannie Hebert-Truax in this week’s episode! She talks her philosophy on balancing rest vs. preparation, pride in player development and program culture, and a hilarious team prank that proves even coaches aren’t safe during tournament prep! On the ice, the Anchorage Wolverines are in a tight playoff race, sitting tied for third with just six games remaining—every point matters down the stretch. Fairbanks Ice Dogs are second, only a few points separate the final three playoff teams in the race! 🏆 1A/2A State Champions Crowned: Alaska high school basketball delivered once again with incredible finishes: Fort Yukon girls go back-to-back with a clutch 52-49 win, Shaktoolik boys take the 1A title—highlighted by a statement dunk, Seward girls continue their dominance, Ninilchik boys add another championship to their history. 🎯 Brackets, Breakdowns & Bold Takes: Looking ahead to the 3A and 4A state tournaments, there’s one word: parity! West Valley emerges as a strong contender in 4A boys, Barrow girls look like the team to beat, Northern Lights Conference 4A girls teams—always dangerous come March, And in 4A boys? Anyone can win on any given day! Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/FWDf5pEqT4s