Morris Scores Lacrosse-Style Goal as Anchorage Clinches NAHL Playoff Berth

Wolverines earn 3-1 home win over Wisconsin Windigo, secure fourth postseason appearance in five seasons

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:51pm

In only his eighth North American Hockey League game with the Anchorage Wolverines, Oliver Morris scored a highlight-reel lacrosse-style goal to help his team clinch a playoff berth with a 3-1 victory over the visiting Wisconsin Windigo. The Wolverines won their 31st game of the season and seventh in a row, securing their fourth postseason appearance in five years of Junior A, Tier II existence.

Why it matters

The Anchorage Wolverines have emerged as a top contender in the NAHL Midwest Division, overcoming a slow start to the season. Morris' creative goal not only sparked the home crowd but also showcased the team's growing confidence and skill as they prepare for the Robertson Cup playoffs.

The details

With the game scoreless in the first period, Morris made his mark by executing a lacrosse-style goal, lifting the puck over the Wisconsin goaltender's shoulder and into the net. This move, known as 'The Michigan,' was first made famous by NCAA player Mike Legg 30 years ago. Morris' highlight-reel tally set the tone as the Wolverines went on to secure the 3-1 win, clinching their playoff spot with four regular-season games remaining.

  • On March 24, 1996, Mike Legg scored the first 'Michigan' goal in NCAA history.
  • On March 26, 2026, Oliver Morris scored his own version of 'The Michigan' to open the scoring for the Anchorage Wolverines.

The players

Oliver Morris

A 19-year-old forward from Redondo Beach, California, who scored the Wolverines' first goal with a lacrosse-style 'Michigan' move in only his eighth game with the team.

Kai Weigel

The Wolverines' goaltender from Bismarck, North Dakota, who made 17 saves to help Anchorage earn the 3-1 victory.

Duke Gentzler

A second-year Wolverine from Manhattan Beach, California, who tipped in Anchorage's third goal on the power play.

Cole Frawner

The Anchorage captain and local product who engaged in a spirited fight with Wisconsin's Ryan Mottau in the second period.

Landon Greenough

An Anchorage player who set up Morris' highlight-reel goal with a play in the offensive zone.

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What they’re saying

“To be honest, I still feel like I'm dreaming. The crowd was going crazy, and I can't even put it all into words. The guys (on the bench) were super cool, and I'm just trying to soak it in.”

— Oliver Morris, Anchorage Wolverines forward

“Our team has been all over it. The energy in the locker room is unlike anything else. It's just something we have to keep going.”

— Oliver Morris, Anchorage Wolverines forward

What’s next

The Wolverines will play their final four regular-season games, including three against the Kenai River Brown Bears, before the NAHL playoffs begin.

The takeaway

Morris' creative goal highlighted the Wolverines' growing confidence and skill as they clinched a playoff berth, showcasing the team's ability to make highlight-reel plays and overcome early-season struggles to emerge as a top contender in the NAHL Midwest Division.