Michigan State Hockey's Season Ends in Overtime Loss

Spartans squander late lead, fall to Wisconsin in heartbreaking fashion

Mar. 29, 2026 at 12:05am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game broken down into overlapping planes of blue, green, and white, conveying the chaotic energy and heartbreak of Michigan State's overtime loss.Michigan State's tournament run ends in a crushing overtime defeat, exposing the raw emotion and fractured momentum of the game's final moments.Worcester Today

The Michigan State hockey team's season came to a devastating end on Saturday, March 28, as they lost 4-3 in overtime to Wisconsin in the NCAA tournament. The Spartans had led 3-1 late in the game but were unable to hold on, allowing the Badgers to force overtime and eventually win the contest.

Why it matters

This loss is a tough blow for the Michigan State hockey program, which was hoping to reach the Frozen Four for the first time in several years. The Spartans had played well throughout the tournament and were just minutes away from advancing before the collapse, leaving the team and its fans heartbroken.

The details

Michigan State had built a 3-1 lead in the third period, but Wisconsin scored twice in the final five minutes to tie the game and force overtime. In the extra period, the Badgers were able to net the game-winning goal, dashing the Spartans' dreams of advancing to the Frozen Four.

  • The game was played on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
  • Michigan State led 3-1 with less than 5 minutes remaining in regulation.

The players

Michigan State Hockey Team

The Michigan State University men's ice hockey team, who were competing in the NCAA tournament.

Wisconsin Badgers

The University of Wisconsin men's ice hockey team, who defeated Michigan State in overtime.

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What they’re saying

“This one really stings. We had them on the ropes and let it slip away. It's a tough way to end the season, but I'm proud of the fight our guys showed all year.”

— Danton Cole, Michigan State Head Coach

What’s next

The Michigan State hockey team will now turn its focus to the offseason and preparing for the 2026-27 campaign, looking to bounce back from this heartbreaking defeat.

The takeaway

This loss is a devastating end to what was otherwise a strong season for the Michigan State hockey team. The Spartans will need to regroup and use this experience as motivation to come back even stronger next year.