Denver University Hockey Wins NCAA Championship In Overtime Thriller
Denver University Hockey Wins NCAA Championship In Overtime Thriller...
Denver University's hockey team clinched the 2026 NCAA Frozen Four championship Thursday night with a dramatic 3-2 overtime victory against rival Boston College. The Pioneers secured their record-breaking 10th national title in front of a sold-out crowd at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Sophomore forward Jake Devries scored the championship-winning goal at 12:47 in overtime, sparking wild celebrations among Denver players and fans. The victory caps an improbable postseason run for the Pioneers, who entered the tournament as a #3 seed in their regional bracket.
Thursday's championship game is trending nationally as one of the most-watched college hockey broadcasts in ESPN history. Social media erupted with reactions to the overtime finish, with #DUHockey trending on Twitter for over six hours after the game.
The win solidifies Denver's status as the most successful program in NCAA hockey history, breaking a tie with Michigan for most national championships. Head coach David Carle becomes just the third coach to win multiple titles at Denver since the program's founding in 1949.
University officials announced Friday morning that the team will return to campus for a public celebration at Magness Arena on Saturday afternoon. The championship comes at a pivotal moment for Denver athletics, as the school prepares to join the new-look Big 12 Conference in 2027.
This marks Denver's third national title in the past decade, following championships in 2017 and 2022. The Pioneers finished the season with a 29-9-3 record, including a perfect 5-0 mark in postseason play.
Local businesses in Denver reported surging sales of team merchandise Friday morning, with some stores selling out of championship gear within hours. The victory is expected to provide a significant boost to university admissions and hockey program recruiting.
Boston College players and coaches graciously congratulated Denver during the postgame ceremony, though several Eagles players were visibly emotional after coming so close to their first title since 2012. The championship game drew particular attention for its high-level play, with scouts from all 32 NHL teams in attendance.
University of Denver Chancellor Jeremy Haefner called the victory "a testament to our student-athletes' dedication and the incredible support of Pioneer Nation." The team is scheduled to visit the Colorado state capitol next week for a formal recognition ceremony.
