Denver and Wisconsin Upset Favorites in Frozen Four Semifinals

Kent Anderson had scored just one goal all season, but the Denver captain saved his best moment for when his team needed it most.

Anderson's shot from the slot with 7:25 left in double overtime sent the Pioneers past Michigan 4-3 in Thursday's Frozen Four semifinal at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The senior defenseman doubled his season scoring total at exactly the right time, capping a gutsy performance that saw Denver overcome physical adversity to advance.

The game required every ounce of heart the Pioneers could muster. Goaltender Johnny Hicks was nearly knocked out in the third period when Michigan's Malcolm Spence ran him over, leaving the 5-foot-10 goalie prone on the ice. Hicks shook off the hit and stayed in, stopping 49 of 52 shots including 13 in the second overtime alone.

Denver's Clarke Caswell had forced overtime by redirecting a shot with just 2:46 remaining after Michigan took a late lead. Anderson's heroics came after teammate Kristian Epperson found him unguarded following a smart play to gain possession.

In the first semifinal, Wisconsin survived its own challenge to beat North Dakota 2-1 despite taking five penalties. The Badgers even gave up a 5-on-3 power play in the second period while holding a 2-0 lead, but their penalty kill held strong.

Freshman goalie Daniel Hauser kept North Dakota at bay until the final minute, when the Fighting Hawks finally broke through with 52.7 seconds left. But Wisconsin had done enough to advance.

Why This Inspires

Saturday's championship gives Wisconsin a shot at history. The Badgers women's team won their Frozen Four title last month, and a men's victory would complete only the second "Frozen Four Daily Double" ever. Wisconsin achieved the same feat in 2006.

Both teams entered Thursday as significant underdogs, with oddsmakers favoring their opponents. Denver finished the regular season 28-11-3 while Wisconsin posted a 24-12-2 record, but both teams proved that heart and preparation matter more than seeding.

Denver coach David Carle praised his team's collective effort and Anderson's clutch moment. Denver now seeks its 11th national title when the two underdogs face off Saturday before another sellout crowd.

Sometimes the best stories come from those nobody expected to win.