The UAF's Men's Basketball team scored two impressive victories last week, showing that they may have lost face in the Top of the World Championship, but are still a potent Division ll threat.

The 'Nooks showed a balanced offensive strategy as big men Andrew Smith, Justin Bourne, Ivan Miskovich, and Tristan Beelow provided a strong inside presence, coupled with excellent perimeter shooting by the likes of Brad Oleson, Chris Smith, and Chris Jordan.

Defensive play was tenacious and consistent, especially in the last game, in which senior guard Brad Oleson tied UAF's record for steals in a game.

And while many of its starters are veterans, the UAF team is getting a big boost from a young bench that is beginning to come into its own.

The Nooks defeated Humbolt State 85-70 on Thursday night, which marked opening GNAC play for both teams.

"Coming off three losses, we needed a win, and I was pleased that we won," said UAF head Coach Frank Ostanik.

Senior guard Chris Smith carried the offense with 21 points, followed by Brad Oleson with 13, junior forward Andrew Smith with 12.  Junior forward Justin Bourne gave 10, along with 9 rebounds. UAF out-rebounded Humbolt State 41-29.

Ostanik said he was impressed with his team's play, but that there's still room for improvement.   "I can't believe we turned it over 22 times, and still won the game," Ostanik said.  "That shows you what happens when you shoot 58 percent from the field."

UAF faced off with Western Oregon Saturday night, in a respond and fire match that ended in a dominating 70-51 UAF victory.

Brad Oleson scored 35 points and made seven steals, tying the all time UAF record for steals in a game held by none other than Coach Ostanik. Freshman guard Chris Jordan added 13 on 5-7 shooting. The Nanooks were out-rebounded by Western Oregon 29-21, but forced 25 turnovers and held the Wolves‚ shooting at 34.5 percent in the second half.

"Our defensive intensity was better, and that made it easier to put on the pressure offensively," said forward Andrew Smith.

"Wins like this are rare, they really are, and I thought we played well and by far our best forty minutes," said Ostanik.

But the team hopes they won't be too rare.  UAF next goes on the road to California to play Sonoma State University and Cal State Stanislaus December 18 and 19. The Nooks have improved on the season to 4-3, and 2-0 in GNAC play.

Photo by John Wagner/ Sun Star
Senior, center Tristan Below goes up for a lay-up against Humboldt State, Thursday at the Patty Center. UAF defeated Humboldt 86-70.

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