Freddy Hamilton

Freddy Hamilton III’s basketball career is a testament to dedication, skill, and the power of community. A standout athlete from Craig High School, Freddy played a pivotal role in putting his small town on the map in the world of Alaska high school basketball. Throughout his high school years (1999-2003), Freddy was an integral part of the Craig Panthers’ success, contributing to several significant achievements.

He was a key member of the 2001-2003 teams that dominated the Region V 3-A basketball scene, with highlights including a state runner-up finish in 2002 and a state championship in 2003. Freddy’s excellence on the court earned him numerous accolades, including being named to the Region V 3-A All-Tournament Team for three consecutive years (2001-2003) and the State All-Tournament Team in both 2002 and 2003.

Freddy’s basketball journey began long before high school. Growing up in Craig, he was part of a tight-knit team that dominated youth tournaments and eventually took their talents to the high school level, where they competed fiercely against larger schools. His leadership and versatility as both a point guard and forward made him a difficult player to defend, and his calm demeanor on the court made him a coach’s dream. As former assistant coach James Mackie shared, “Freddy was one of your first two-way players, an exceptional point guard/forward who made it very difficult for the opposing team to guard him.”

Notably, Freddy’s last-minute 3-point shot against the Barrow Whalers in 2002 sent the Panthers to the state championship, a moment that remains etched in the memories of Craig’s basketball fans. Doug Rhodes, former principal and AD at Craig High School, recalled, “Freddy Hamilton was an important part of their success…the entire town was wearing Craig Panther Basketball shirts with the photos of Freddy and the other players on the team, and you can still see the shirts around Craig today!”

Beyond his high school success, Freddy continued to inspire as a coach, and even as a commercial fisherman, he stayed connected to his love for the game by participating in the Gold Medal Tournament in Juneau each year. His achievements, both on and off the court, have left a lasting legacy in Craig, a community proud of Freddy’s accomplishments and his contribution to its sports history.

As the grandson of Herb Didrickson, a member of the first class of the ASAA Hall of Fame, Freddy Hamilton III’s induction into the Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of his outstanding athletic career and his lasting impact on high school basketball in Alaska.