The Alaska Nanooks volleyball team has achieved a significant milestone by qualifying for the NCAA Division II Volleyball Tournament for the first time in program history. With a remarkable record of 23-5 and a 14-4 finish in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC), the Nanooks will enter the upcoming postseason as the No. 5 seed in the West Region Championships.
This season marked a historic chapter for the Nanooks, highlighted by their successful bid for a share of the GNAC Championship, the first in the program’s existence. Their consistent performance throughout the season has secured them a spot in a highly competitive field of teams, which includes notable contenders such as the Point Loma Sea Lions, the Simon Fraser Red Leafs, and the Alaska Anchorage Seawolves.
Upcoming Matchup Against Alaska Anchorage
The Nanooks will begin their tournament journey by facing their in-state rival, the Alaska Anchorage Seawolves, who are seeded No. 4. This first-round matchup is scheduled for Thursday, December 4, at 7 p.m. PST in San Diego. The intensity of this rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to the matchup, as both teams have a history of competitive games.
Should the Nanooks emerge victorious against the Seawolves, they will advance to the round of 32 on Friday, December 5, where they will compete against the winner of the match between the top-seeded Point Loma Sea Lions and the Cal State San Bernardino Yotes. This path presents a challenging but thrilling opportunity for the Nanooks to advance further in the tournament.
The Alaska Nanooks’ entry into the NCAA DII Volleyball Tournament not only showcases their remarkable growth as a team but also sets a new standard for future seasons. Their achievement serves as an inspiration for both current players and future recruits, establishing a legacy that could elevate the program in the years to come. As the tournament approaches, excitement continues to build among fans and supporters of the Nanooks, eager to see how this historic season unfolds.
