Denver claims 11th NCAA hockey title over Wisconsin

Pioneers rally late to defeat Badgers in championship game

Apr. 12, 2026 at 9:35pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the chaotic action of a hockey game, with fragmented shapes and planes representing the players, puck, and ice surface in motion.Denver's dramatic late-game rally secures another national hockey championship for the Pioneers' storied program.Denver Today

The University of Denver Pioneers men's hockey team defeated the University of Wisconsin Badgers 2-1 in the NCAA championship game on Saturday in Las Vegas. Denver forward Kyle Chyzowski scored the game-winning goal with 5:52 remaining in the third period to lift the Pioneers to their 11th national title.

Why it matters

This victory continues Denver's dominance in college hockey, as they have now won 11 national championships, the most of any program. For Wisconsin, the loss is a tough end to an otherwise successful season in which they reached the title game.

The details

In a close, defensive battle, the game was tied 1-1 late in the third period when Denver's Kyle Chyzowski scored the decisive goal to give the Pioneers the lead. Denver's defense then held strong in the final minutes to preserve the victory.

  • The NCAA hockey championship game was played on Saturday, April 12, 2026 in Las Vegas.
  • Kyle Chyzowski scored the game-winning goal for Denver with 5:52 remaining in the third period.

The players

Kyle Chyzowski

A forward for the University of Denver Pioneers men's hockey team who scored the game-winning goal in the NCAA championship game.

University of Denver Pioneers

The men's hockey team from the University of Denver, which has now won 11 NCAA national championships, the most of any program.

University of Wisconsin Badgers

The men's hockey team from the University of Wisconsin, which reached the NCAA championship game but fell short of the title.

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What they’re saying

“This is an incredible feeling, to win another national championship for Denver. The guys battled hard all game and I'm so proud of their effort.”

— David Carle, Head Coach, University of Denver Pioneers

“We had our chances but just couldn't find the back of the net when we needed to. Denver played a great game and deserved the win.”

— Tony Granato, Head Coach, University of Wisconsin Badgers

What’s next

The University of Denver Pioneers will begin preparations for the 2026-27 season as they look to defend their national championship.

The takeaway

Denver's victory extends their reign as the most successful college hockey program in the country, cementing their status as a perennial powerhouse. For Wisconsin, the loss is a tough end to an otherwise strong season, but they will look to build on this experience and return to the championship game in the future.