His Noorvik boys basketball teams played with pride, precision and passion, a reflection of longtime coach Mike Zibell’s zest for the game. His coaching career lasted only 14 years, but he averaged a state title every other year. He guided the Bears to seven ASAA championships between 1995 and 2009. There was no better small schools squad in Alaska from 2005 and 2007 when Noorvik won three straight titles – two at Class 1A before moving up to 2A and winning again. He was named 1A Coach of the Year in 2006 and 2A Coach of the Year in 2007. Zibell compiled a 272-76 career record and carved up the competition with an .866 winning percentage in the postseason [58-9]. His players were just as disciplined off the court, treating others with respect and handling themselves like gentlemen.
