AOTW: Over 1K miles from home, Finn Gregg’s MVP weekend leads Nome to Wolverines Classic championship

Published: Jan. 20, 2025 at 12:45 PM AKST|Updated: Jan. 20, 2025 at 7:36 PM AKST
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ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Despite the South Anchorage Wolverines logo gracing every corner of the hardwood, Nome’s matchup Saturday — and the entire weekend — felt like a regular home stand for the defending state champs.

“This is dedication like no other, flying over 1,000 miles to watch us play basketball is pretty special,” Nome Senior Finn Gregg said.

Taking part in the 2025 Wolverines Classic, Nome-Beltz had a little help in the bleachers as hundreds of fans packed into the South Anchorage gymnasium. And with the full support of the community behind them, Nome, and Gregg himself, had a weekend to remember after defeating South 66-56 to take home the tournament crown.

“It says a lot about us,” Gregg said following Nome’s semifinal victory over West Valley. “I feel very confident about this group. I think we’re one of the best in the state.”

Gregg’s sentiments were backed up over the three-day tournament, where he showed why he’s one of Alaska’s best players.

In the semifinals against West Valley, Gregg amassed 32 points to earn player of the game — a feat he topped just one day later when he was named MVP of the classic.

“You spend a lot of your time trying to get to a high level of basketball,” Gregg said. “So, when it comes time to shine, it feels like you’re ready to go.”

That time will continue to pay off next year when Gregg moves to the college ranks, swapping his Nome jersey for the Blue and Gold of Fairbanks.

“Everytime I watched Finn Gregg play, he was at his best in the biggest moments of a game.” UAF head coach Frank Ostanik said. “He’s a talented and skilled player, but it’s his toughness that stands out.”

Yet, despite walking away with some hardware, Gregg and the rest of the program have their eyes down the road — ready to bring home the third state title in team history come March.

“It would mean the world,” Gregg said. “I want to give them one more.”

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