DU Hockey Wins Double Overtime Thriller, Eyes 11th Title

The University of Denver Pioneers refused to give up, and it paid off in the most thrilling way possible.

In a heart-stopping Frozen Four semifinal Thursday night, DU's men's hockey team defeated top-seeded Michigan 4-3 in double overtime. Captain Kent Anderson scored the winning goal with 7:25 left in the second overtime period, sending the second-seeded Pioneers to the national championship game.

"I don't score many goals, so this is ranking up top so far," Anderson said afterward. "That means everything to play in this national championship game."

The Pioneers had every reason to lose hope late in the game. Michigan dominated shots on goal and had DU on the ropes as regulation time wound down.

Then Garrett Brown tied the game with fewer than three minutes remaining in regulation. The comeback was on, and goalie Johnny Hicks kept it alive with an incredible 49 saves throughout the night.

Now DU has a chance to make history on Saturday when they face Wisconsin in Las Vegas. The game starts at 3:30 p.m. Mountain Time and will stream on ESPN and ESPN+, with radio coverage on 104.3 The Fan.

The Ripple Effect

This championship run means more than just another trophy for Denver. If the Pioneers win Saturday, it will be their unprecedented 11th national championship and their third title in just five years.

The energy extends far beyond the ice. After DU's 2024 championship victory over Boston College, students flooded the campus in celebration, creating memories that united the entire university community.

Whether you're a diehard hockey fan or just love a good underdog story, Saturday's game offers a chance to witness something special.