Taylor Heise records third Olympic point as US women's hockey advances to semifinals

The former Minnesota Miss Hockey and Patty Kazmaier Award winner continues to contribute in her first Winter Games.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Taylor Heise, a former Minnesota high school and University of Minnesota star, recorded her third point of the 2026 Winter Olympics as the United States women's hockey team defeated host Italy 6-0 to advance to the semifinals. Heise, who has one goal and two assists in five games, set up a late second-period goal that put the game out of reach for Italy. The U.S. has outscored its opponents 26-1 in the tournament so far, with four consecutive shutouts.

Why it matters

Heise's performance at her first Olympics demonstrates her ability to contribute at the highest level of women's hockey, building on her decorated college and high school careers. The U.S. team's dominant run through the preliminary round also highlights the program's depth and talent as it seeks another gold medal.

The details

Heise recorded the primary assist on a goal by teammate Hannah Bilka late in the second period, with the U.S. already leading 5-0. Heise carried the puck deep into the Italian zone before setting up Bilka for the score. The game featured some physical play, with Heise and other U.S. players taking hard hits, but the Americans maintained control throughout, outshooting Italy 51-6.

  • Heise recorded her third point of the Olympics with 1:23 remaining in the second period.
  • The U.S. has now recorded four consecutive shutouts after allowing one goal in its Olympic opener.

The players

Taylor Heise

A former Minnesota Miss Hockey at Red Wing High School and Patty Kazmaier Award winner at the University of Minnesota, making her Olympic debut.

Hannah Bilka

Heise's linemate who scored the sixth goal for the U.S. off of Heise's pass.

Kendall Coyne Schofield

Veteran U.S. player who took a hard hit from an Italian player.

Abbey Murphy

Young U.S. star forward who was also hit hard by an Italian player.

Gwyneth Philips

U.S. goaltender who earned her second shutout of the Olympics, making six saves.

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What they’re saying

“I love the way Taylor Heise plays. She really is the driver of that line. I'd love to see her shoot to get rewarded, but you know what? She's getting assists and setting up her linemates for goals.”

— AJ Mleczko, Analyst (USA Network)

What’s next

The U.S. will play an opponent to be determined in the semifinals at 9:40 a.m. CT on Monday (4:40 p.m. local time).

The takeaway

Heise's performance at her first Olympics demonstrates her ability to contribute at the highest level of women's hockey, while the U.S. team's dominant run through the preliminary round highlights the program's depth and talent as it seeks another gold medal.