Denver Beats Michigan in Double OT, Advances to NCAA Hockey Championship

Pioneers to face Wisconsin in title game after 4-3 victory over Wolverines

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:35am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the chaotic final moments of the Denver-Michigan hockey game, with overlapping planes of color representing the players, puck, and ice.Denver's dramatic double-overtime victory over Michigan sets up a championship showdown with Wisconsin in college hockey's biggest stage.Denver Today

The University of Denver Pioneers defeated the University of Michigan Wolverines 4-3 in double overtime to advance to the NCAA men's ice hockey national championship game. Denver's Kent Anderson scored the game-winning goal with 7:25 remaining in the second overtime period. The Pioneers will now face the University of Wisconsin Badgers for the national title on Saturday.

Why it matters

This victory extends Denver's dominance in college hockey, as the Pioneers will be playing for their 11th national championship - the most of any program in NCAA history. Michigan, meanwhile, continues its 28-year drought without a national title in men's ice hockey despite being a perennial Frozen Four contender.

The details

Denver's Johnny Hicks made 49 saves in goal, including 13 in the double overtime period, to lead the Pioneers to victory. Michigan outshot Denver 52-26 overall, but couldn't capitalize. The game was tied 3-3 at the end of regulation before Anderson's game-winner in the second OT.

  • The game-winning goal was scored with 7:25 remaining in the second overtime period.
  • Denver and Wisconsin will play for the national championship on Saturday.

The players

Kent Anderson

The Denver defenseman scored the game-winning goal in double overtime to send the Pioneers to the national championship game.

Johnny Hicks

The Denver goaltender made 49 saves, including 13 in double overtime, to lead the Pioneers to victory.

Jayden Perron

The Michigan forward scored a power-play goal in the third period to give the Wolverines a 3-2 lead.

Cale Ashcroft

The Denver defenseman scored the lone goal of the second period to tie the game at 2-2.

Jack Ivankovic

The Michigan goaltender made 22 saves in the losing effort.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must have left everything out on the ice tonight. I'm so proud of the way our guys battled and never gave up, even when we fell behind late. This win is a testament to their hard work and determination.”

— David Carle, Head Coach, Denver Pioneers

“It's a tough way to end the season, but I couldn't be more proud of this team and everything we accomplished. We'll be back, I can promise you that.”

— Mel Pearson, Head Coach, Michigan Wolverines

What’s next

Denver will face Wisconsin in the NCAA men's ice hockey national championship game on Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

Denver's victory extends its dynasty in college hockey, as the Pioneers will be playing for their 11th national title - the most of any program. Meanwhile, Michigan's 28-year drought without a championship continues, despite the Wolverines' consistent success in reaching the Frozen Four.