Denver Defeats Michigan in Frozen Four Thriller

Anderson's double-overtime goal lifts Pioneers to 4-3 victory, keeps national title hopes alive.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:55am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the frenetic energy and movement of a college hockey game, with players' figures dissolving into unrecognizable brushstrokes.The dramatic overtime heroics of the Denver Pioneers' victory over Michigan in the Frozen Four semifinals electrified the crowd and showcased the raw passion of college hockey.Denver Today

In a thrilling Frozen Four semifinal matchup, the Denver Pioneers defeated the Michigan Wolverines 4-3 in double overtime. Kent Anderson scored the game-winning goal at 7:25 of the second overtime period, capping off a 49-save performance by goaltender Johnny Hicks. The victory keeps Denver's hopes of winning their third national title in five years alive.

Why it matters

The Frozen Four is college hockey's premier event, and this semifinal matchup between two powerhouse programs lived up to the hype. Denver's dramatic victory in double overtime will be remembered as one of the most exciting games of the tournament, further cementing the Pioneers' status as a national championship contender.

The details

In a back-and-forth affair, Denver and Michigan traded goals throughout regulation. The Pioneers took a 3-2 lead late in the third period, but Michigan's Luke Winters scored with just over a minute remaining to send the game to overtime. After a scoreless first overtime, Anderson's goal in the second OT period sealed the victory for Denver.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • Anderson's game-winning goal came at 7:25 of the second overtime period.

The players

Kent Anderson

A forward for the Denver Pioneers who scored the game-winning goal in double overtime.

Johnny Hicks

The Denver Pioneers' goaltender who made 49 saves to keep his team in the game.

Luke Winters

A Michigan Wolverines player who scored the game-tying goal late in the third period to send the game to overtime.

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What they’re saying

“I don't score many goals, so this is ranking up top so far,”

— Kent Anderson, Denver Pioneers forward

What’s next

The Pioneers will advance to the Frozen Four championship game, where they will face the winner of the other semifinal matchup.

The takeaway

This thrilling double-overtime victory showcases the intense competition and high-stakes drama of the Frozen Four tournament, as the Denver Pioneers continue their pursuit of a national championship.