Wolverines forward Ushio makes NCAA DI Commitment

The Anchorage Wolverines of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are proud to announce that forward Taisetsu Ushio has committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the University of Alaska-Fairbanks.

Ushio, 18, just wrapped up his first season of junior hockey in the NAHL. Appearing in 40 regular season games for Anchorage, the Hokkaido, Japan native racked up 39 points (20 goals, 19 assists), including 4 game winnings goals and 7 powerplay goals while maintaining a plus-minus of +20. With his impressive statline, he was selected to participate in the 2024 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament held in Pittsburgh, PA.

During the Robertson Cup Playoffs, Ushio tallied 3 goals and 3 assists for 6 postseason points as the Wolverines secured the Midwest title, earning a trip to Blaine for the Robertson Cup Finals.

“We are really excited for Tai and his commitment to UAF. For a young guy in the league to come in and score 20 goals this season, we knew he was going to turn some heads,” stated Wolverines Head Coach Nick Walters. “Not only are they getting an outstanding player that plays with pace, physical for a smaller player, and has a natural scoring touch, they’re also getting an awesome person. Tai is coachable, eager to learn and improve his craft, and is an unbelievable teammate. He’s the ultimate package, and put in a lot of work this season to earn this opportunity.” 

Ushio is the 11th player to commit for the Wolverines this season and will join teammates Bryce Monrean and Fedya Nikolayenya at Fairbanks.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list