ALASKA SPORTS TALK
It’s a packed episode of AST as the crew along with Matt Nevala with the Alaska Sports Report dives into a major shake-up in college hockey with Eric Rood taking over the UAA Seawolves program. What does his D1 experience mean for the future of Seawolves hockey? And with powerhouse programs like Denver Pioneers and Colorado College Tigers coming to Anchorage, is this the spark the program needs? The conversation shifts to the Anchorage Wolverines as the guys break down a rollercoaster season that ended with drama—literally down to 0.2 seconds. From a tough 2-win start to a season full of comebacks and electric home crowds, the Wolverines gave fans plenty to remember. Plus, there’s already buzz about what’s coming next… including a teased September event you won’t want to miss! The episode wraps with powerful moments from recent Hall of Fame ceremonies, including reflections on Alaska’s rich sports history and upcoming inductions featuring legends like Dick Griffith, Butch Lincoln, and Sean Rash. From coaching changes to community impact, this episode covers everything happening across the Alaska sports landscape right now. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/cf6h7fCcSXs
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 43
The guys sit down with the new face of University of Alaska Anchorage basketball—Head Coach Cameron Turner—and then pivot straight into playoff hockey drama and rising stars across Alaska sports. Cameron Turner kicks things off with a heartfelt return to UAA, the place where his college coaching journey began. He shares how mentor Rusty Osborne shaped his philosophy—not just as a coach, but as a family man—and why that balance matters more than ever in today’s game. From VHS tapes to NIL deals, he breaks down how recruiting has completely evolved, and how he’s navigating the chaos of the transfer portal to build a winning program in Anchorage. But this isn’t just about X’s and O’s—it’s about people. Cameron dives into mentoring student-athletes beyond the court, teaching life skills, financial awareness, and building trust. And yes… the guy knows big men. With a track record that includes coaching NBA star Kevin Love, coach shares insight into developing dominant post players—including his current 7’2” prospect—and what it really takes to elevate them to the next level. Then it’s playoff time! We break down the latest with the Anchorage Wolverines, who are battling to stay alive in their series against the Minnesota Wilderness. After a Game 1 win, the Wolverines dropped the next two and now face a must-win Game 4 at Sullivan Arena. Around the state, playoff pressure isn’t just in Anchorage. The Fairbanks Ice Dogs are also fighting uphill, while on the baseball diamond, Rylan Nikolai is making serious noise with a monster performance—two home runs in a single game—and putting himself firmly in the Player of the Year conversation. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/Yt21M8ogZyc
SEASON 3, EPISODE 38
The guys kick things off with a deep dive into the Anchorage Wolverines’ first-round showdown with the Minnesota Wilderness, breaking down the unique (and slightly chaotic) playoff format. From travel scenarios to the possibility of not even hosting a home game if they sweep, the guys walk through every angle. One thing is clear—it’s not about where you play, it’s about surviving and advancing. The conversation then shifts to the bigger hockey picture, highlighting Anchorage ties to David Karl’s continued dominance at Denver, and unpacking the challenges facing the UAA hockey program after another coaching change. What does it take to stay competitive in today’s college hockey landscape? Facilities, funding, and stability all take center stage. On the volleyball side, the crew reacts to Morgan Hoe stepping in as UAA’s new head coach, a move that keeps it in the family and reflects the growing strength of volleyball across Alaska. With momentum building at both UAA and UAF, the future of the sport in the state is looking strong. From there, it’s all about AABC High School Senior All-Star Game energy! We recap the coverage of the All-Star games—where fundamentals, defense, and team play stole the show—and highlight standout moments like Keelie Kronberger lighting it up from deep and Emilio Ambrosio throwing down in the dunk contest. Watch this episode on AST YouTube: https://youtu.be/670FY5jGIgc
SEASON 3, EPISODE 37
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