December 18, 2025, Seward Folly

The boys basketball team is gearing up for what promises to be another standout season, coming off two years of unprecedented growth. With 25 athletes between varsity and JV — the program’s largest roster since the 2013-14 season, expectations are for a good season.

Leadership will come from a trio of seasoned seniors: Emerson Cross, Mason Elhard, and Lane Petersen, all bringing years of experience and a steady presence. Senior teammates Otto Nipp and Olin Liljemark may be newer to the program, having joined just two years ago, but they’ve learned quickly and are ready to step up. Sophomore Luke Elhard is also expected to make a significant impact this season.

Seward Boys pushing hard at a recent practice

Last year’s campaign ended in heartbreak, with a buzzer-beater loss to Unalakleet in the 2A championship, an ending that still stings. Unalakleet went on to claim the title, while the boys bounced back to secure third place with a win over Metlakatla the next day. It was the best season the team had seen in years, following their competitive run as a 3A team the year prior. Coach Plan thinks that when you get to the top 5 or 6 teams in both the 2A and 3A divisions, there isn’t a lot of difference — they’re both highly competitive. This year promises more of the same.

Plan’s focus will be on integrating the less-experienced players into the system and leaning on the veterans to help them adjust to the fast pace of high school basketball.

“I’m very confident we can do that. These are very good kids, and they’re strong leaders,” Coach Plan said.

The school’s move to 9-man football and 2A basketball has been good for the school, says Plan, and underscores the adaptability and depth of talent among its athletes. For a small school, the program boasts quality athletes, dedicated coaches, and a solid athletic director steering the ship. The impressive results from the high school sports program the last few years can’t be ignored.   

If the past two seasons are any indication, this team has the pieces — and the leadership — to make another deep run.