The 1972-73 Alaska Nanooks men’s basketball team put UAF basketball on the map, becoming the first championship team in University of Alaska history. The “Flying Nanooks” finished the regular season 18-7 before defeating Central Washington in a dramatic three-game series to capture the NAIA District 1 Championship and secure the first district title in program history.
The Nanooks began the season 3-3 at home but went on to win 12 of their final 15 games in Fairbanks, building a strong connection with a community that packed the Patty Gym throughout the season. On the road, Alaska established itself as one of the nation’s most traveled teams, earning victories over Chico State, Macalester, Lewis & Clark, St. Martin’s, Pacific Lutheran, British Columbia and Simon Fraser.
The district championship series provided the defining moments of the season. Alaska opened with a 67-65 victory over Central Washington in a packed Patty Gym before traveling to Ellensburg, where the Wildcats evened the series. Central had dominated District 1 for years and had not lost at home during the season, but the Nanooks responded with an 85-60 victory in the decisive third game to claim the championship. Mike Lessley led Alaska with 22 points, while Mark Beauchamp delivered the decisive basket and clutch free throws down the stretch.
Lessley earned All-District honors after averaging more than 20 points per game, while Dick Lee and Beauchamp received honorable mention recognition. Head coach Al Svenningson was named District 1 Coach of the Year. The Nanooks finished the season 20-8 and advanced to a one-game playoff against Eastern Montana for a berth in the NAIA National Tournament.
Beyond the historic championship, the 1972-73 team established a standard of excellence that helped shape the future of Alaska Nanooks basketball. Its players and coaches went on to make meaningful contributions in their communities through coaching, education, business and public service, carrying the lessons and leadership developed during their time at Alaska.
The 1972-73 Nanooks were more than a successful basketball team — they were the group that started it all. As the first championship team in UAF history and a team that defeated a Central Washington program with a longstanding District 1 tradition, their place in Alaska Nanooks Athletics history is undeniable.
