by Thurman Jack
The Unalakleet Wolfpack boys’ and girls’ basketball teams claimed championships at the 2A Conference Clash Tournament, an eight-team event featuring top programs from each of the four 2A conferences. The tournament included Unalakleet, Hooper Bay, Nenana, Susitna Valley, Lumen Christi, Cordova, Metlakatla, and Petersburg.
Girls’ Tournament Recap
The Wolfpack girls opened with a dominant 58-29 win over Susitna Valley. In the semifinals, they faced Nenana, who had advanced by defeating a shorthanded Metlakatla squad. Unalakleet’s defense shined in a 44-18 victory, but the win came at a cost, as standout guard Raeleen Bradley suffered a foot injury and is out indefinitely.
In the championship game, Unalakleet took on Lumen Christi, who had defeated Cordova and Hooper Bay. Despite missing two starters (Bradley and Cedar Busk), the Wolfpack secured a 38-29 victory to claim the title. Keely Johnson ran the offense brilliantly throughout the tournament, while Beth Ivanoff, Ourea Busk, Violet Jack, and Bradley were named to the All-Tournament Team.
Johnson also won the Free Throw Contest, while Jack tied for first in the Post Competition, and Ivanoff tied for first in the 3-Point Contest. The Wolfpack girls now hold a 13-1 record, solidifying their status as one of the top 2A teams alongside Glennallen, Seward, and Point Hope.
Next up: The girls host Kotzebue this weekend in their final home games of the season, with Senior Night on Friday.
Boys’ Tournament Recap
The Wolfpack boys beat Nenana 80-19 in their opener, setting the tone for the tournament. In the semifinals, they faced 2A powerhouse Metlakatla, who had beaten Susitna Valley. Unalakleet’s stifling defense led to a commanding 33-9 halftime lead, and while Metlakatla made a late push, the Wolfpack held on for a 43-40 win.
In the championship, Unalakleet faced Cordova, who had beaten Hooper Bay and Petersburg. Once again, defense carried the Wolfpack, leading to a 47-37 victory. Paxson Commack led the way on both ends of the court, showcasing his speed and shooting, while the team’s defense shut down two of the top 2A programs. Commack and Isaac Smith were named to the All-Tournament Team.
A large Unalakleet crowd filled the gym for the championship games on Saturday night, creating a home-like atmosphere as both teams secured titles.
Next up: The boys head to Kotzebue for away games this weekend.
