Wisconsin Men's Hockey Advances To Frozen Four Championship
Wisconsin Mens Hockey Advances To Frozen Four Championship...
The University of Wisconsin men's hockey team secured a spot in the NCAA Frozen Four championship game after a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory against Boston College on Thursday night. The Badgers' dramatic win, fueled by freshman forward Max Johnson's game-winning goal, has sparked celebrations across Wisconsin and put the program one win away from its seventh national title.
The victory comes just days after Wisconsin upset top-seeded Michigan in the regional final, making this the team's deepest tournament run since 2010. Head coach Tony Granato's squad has now won nine straight games, riding a wave of momentum into Saturday's championship matchup against defending champion Denver.
Wisconsin's success is resonating beyond campus, with #BadgersHockey trending nationally on social media. The team's Cinderella story has captured attention as the only non-#1 seed remaining in the tournament. Local bars in Madison reported record viewership during Thursday's semifinal, while ticket demand for the championship game in St. Paul, Minnesota has surged.
The program's resurgence holds special significance after missing the NCAA tournament last season. Athletic director Chris McIntosh told reporters Friday that the run has already boosted season ticket deposits for next year. Wisconsin last won the national championship in 2006 under then-coach Mike Eaves.
Saturday's championship game (7:30 PM CT, ESPN2) will feature two of college hockey's most storied programs. Denver seeks its record 10th title, while Wisconsin aims to move into sole possession of third place all-time with seven championships. The matchup marks the first Frozen Four final between these rivals since 1973.
University officials announced Friday they will host a public viewing party at the Kohl Center, with doors opening at 6 PM. Governor Tony Evers tweeted that he'll be attending the game in person, calling it "a proud moment for all of Wisconsin."
