Denver University Hockey Advances To Frozen Four Finals
Denver University's hockey team secured a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory against Boston College in the Frozen Four semifinals on Saturday, April 11, 2026. The win propels the Pioneers to the NCAA championship game for the first time since 2022, reigniting excitement among college hockey fans nationwide.
The game, played at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota, saw Denver overcome a late third-period deficit. Sophomore forward Jake Devlin scored the game-winner just 1:12 into overtime, sending DU students and alumni into celebrations across Colorado.
This matchup is trending today as Denver seeks its 10th national title, which would break a tie with Michigan for the most in NCAA history. The championship game against Michigan State on Monday night is already drawing heavy ticket demand and ESPN viewership projections.
Head coach David Carle praised his team's resilience after the win. "We've been in these pressure situations all season," Carle told reporters. "This group never panics." The victory extends Denver's winning streak to 14 games, the program's longest since 2017.
Local bars near DU's campus reported packed crowds during Saturday's game, with similar turnout expected for Monday's final. University officials announced watch parties at Magness Arena, where the game will be shown on the stadium's massive video board.
The Frozen Four has drawn increased attention this year after ESPN's expanded coverage brought record ratings for the quarterfinals. Denver's deep playoff run has particularly captivated Colorado sports fans during a quiet period for the Nuggets and Avalanche.
Michigan State presents a formidable challenge in Monday's championship, having defeated top-seeded North Dakota 4-1 in the other semifinal. The Spartans boast the nation's top-ranked defense, setting up a classic offense-versus-defense showdown.
Puck drop for the national championship is set for 6:30 p.m. CT Monday on ESPN. A Denver victory would mark the school's third title in eight years, further cementing its status as a modern college hockey powerhouse.
