The University of Alaska Fairbanks Nanooks announced the signing of Javares Reid, a 6‑9 forward who spent the past two seasons at Lower Columbia College in the Northwest Athletic Conference. The move adds a blend of size, skill and shooting accuracy to a program eager to rebound from recent challenges.
Coach Frank Ostanik praised Reid's physical attributes and work ethic, noting a 49.4% field‑goal percentage and 4.1 rebounds per game from the previous season. Ostanik emphasized that Reid's love for the game aligns perfectly with the Nanooks' culture and expects an immediate on‑court impact.
Reid's collegiate résumé includes a championship‑winning stint with Lower Columbia, where he contributed 6.3 points, 27 blocks and 13 steals per game during the 2024‑25 campaign. A sophomore year cut short by injury still yielded 10.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game, underscoring his resilience and scoring capability.
A Strategic Addition
Beyond raw statistics, Ostanik highlighted Reid's humility and the rapport he has quickly built with his new teammates. The forward's coach, Frank Ostanik, believes that Reid's mindset will foster a cohesive locker room environment as the squad prepares for a tougher schedule.
The signing arrives alongside the commitment of Ethen Stoddard, a move that Ostanik says will reshape the Nanooks' identity as they transition into the Great Northwest Athletic Conference and the West Region. Early preseason work suggests the pair will help the team compete against larger opponents.
Coach Karlberg is credited with the scouting effort that identified both prospects, and his role in the recruitment process has been widely praised. The coaching staff is confident that the new roster will translate recruiting success into tangible wins on the hardwood.
Fans and analysts are watching closely as the Nanooks aim to turn this recruiting boost into a competitive edge. If the early indicators hold, the program could see a significant shift in its trajectory, positioning the team as a formidable contender in the upcoming season.