On a memorable evening at the Alaska Airlines Center in Anchorage, Unalakleet's boys basketball team clinched their first state championship since 1996. Facing Cordova in the finals of the Alaska 2A State Tournament on March 15, 2025, the Wolfpack overcame a significant deficit to secure a thrilling 40-36 victory. The game was highlighted by an outstanding performance from junior Isaac Smith, whose crucial contributions ignited the team and energized the crowd. Coach Thurman Jack praised the resilience and unity of his players, noting that this triumph marked a full-circle moment for both the team and the community.

The path to victory was not straightforward for Unalakleet. In the early stages of the match, both teams struggled with scoring, resulting in a tied score of 9-9 after the first quarter. However, Cordova capitalized on Unalakleet's shooting slump in the second quarter, going on a 10-0 run to establish a lead. At one point in the third quarter, the Wolverines held a commanding advantage of 10 points. Despite the adversity, the Wolfpack remained composed, driven by the senior leadership within the group.

Isaac Smith emerged as the hero of the night during the final quarter. With only four points before the last period, he delivered when it mattered most, scoring 10 of the team’s 14 points in the fourth quarter. His fearless approach included two decisive three-pointers and solid defensive plays against Cordova's key player. Smith finished the game with a double-double, contributing 14 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, blocking a shot, and recording three steals. His confidence and aggressive playstyle were instrumental in narrowing the gap and eventually overtaking Cordova.

Beyond the individual accolades, the atmosphere inside the arena played a pivotal role in Unalakleet's success. Fans chanted "Wolfpack power!" throughout the match, providing much-needed energy for the team. Although the game lacked high scores, the electric ambiance electrified everyone present. Players like Paxson Commack also contributed significantly, driving for crucial layups and pushing the ball upcourt under pressure. The collective support from the community added extra motivation, making the victory even sweeter.

For coach Thurman Jack, the win was deeply personal. Having been part of the 1996 championship-winning team himself, this victory completed a circle of achievement and legacy. He expressed gratitude for his father, who had previously coached in Nome and won multiple state titles, being present to witness the historic moment. The triumph resonated deeply within the Unalakleet community, fulfilling a long-standing aspiration and proving that perseverance and teamwork can overcome any challenge.