Alaska-Anchorage and Alaska-Fairbanks Athletic Merger Proposed

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Alaska's ongoing budget issues is giving life to an idea floated by the University of Alaska's president to merge the athletic programs at Alaska-Anchorage and Alaska-Fairbanks.

Jim Johnsen floated the idea in April and UAF's athletic director, Gary Gray tells KTVA-TV the option is still on the table.

Alaska-Anchorage athletic director Keith Hackett has stated repeatedly in recent weeks that all options are being considered for his department. That includes cutting teams or even the possibility of dumping the Great Alaska Shootout basketball tournament.