FAIRBANKS - The Alaska Nanooks are proud to announce the hiring of Michael Ricks as the 14th head coach of the women's basketball program. Ricks brings over two decades of coaching experience to Fairbanks.
"We're excited to welcome Michael Ricks as the new Head Coach of Nanooks Women's Basketball," said Dr. Brock Anundson, Alaska Nanooks Director of Athletics. "He brings a strong coaching background, a passion for developing student-athletes on and off the court, and a clear vision for the program's future. His leadership and energy are a great match for our values, and we're confident he'll make a positive impact on both our team and the greater Fairbanks community. We also extend a sincere thanks to the Search Committee and Kurt Patberg of Mammoth Consulting for their valuable support throughout the process."
Ricks arrives in Fairbanks after leading successful turnarounds at Goucher College and Birmingham-Southern College. During the 2024–2025 season, Ricks engineered the top turnaround in NCAA Division III at Goucher, producing a 13-win improvement and national statistical leadership in several categories, including scoring offense, bench production, steals, and turnover margin.
Previously, at Birmingham-Southern, Ricks guided the Panthers to multiple conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Notably, he led the biggest turnaround in the nation during the 2015–2016 season, transforming the program into a defensive powerhouse and conference champion. His teams have consistently ranked at the top of national statistical categories and produced numerous all-conference and all-region players.
"I'm thrilled to be joining the UAF community and leading the Alaska Nanooks women's basketball program," said Ricks after his hiring. "This is a place with incredible character and opportunity, and my family and I are excited to make Fairbanks our home. I look forward to developing a program that competes with passion and represents the university with pride. I want to sincerely thank the search committee, Chancellor White, Dr. Brock Anundson, and Dr. Amy Cooper for their belief in me and for the opportunity to lead this program."
In addition to his on-court accomplishments, Ricks has a long-standing commitment to mentorship, character-building, and academic support. His programs have been recognized for their emphasis on sportsmanship and student-athlete development throughout his career.
Ricks holds advanced degrees in Sports Management and Educational Administration and is a published contributor to coaching literature. He is also a long-time member of the Women's Basketball Coaches Association and the National Strength & Conditioning Association.
Follow the 'Nooks
IG - @NanooksWBB
X - @NanooksWBB
FB - Alaska Nanooks Women's Basketball